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January 8, 2026

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Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXIX Iss. 2

Clinton Democrat Agrees To Consent Order With SEEC By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

A Clinton Democrat told the Harbor News he will voluntarily enter into a consent agreement with the State Election Enforcement Commission to resolve a complaint over a campaign finance violation. On Dec. 18, Michael Rossi emailed a copy of a consent order he was sent by the SEEC

to the Harbor News. Rossi said he would sign the order and return it to the SEEC that day. Minutes from the SEEC website show the commission had not yet formally accepted the order and closed the complaint as of deadline. The issue was continued at a Dec. 17 meeting after an executive session, and the next SEEC meeting isn’t until Jan. 7, which is after press time for this article.

According to the order sent by Rossi, the SEEC said that Rossi violated a Connecticut statute by having a municipal campaign solely financed by the Clinton Democratic Town Committee while he was also serving as the treasurer of the Clinton DTC. Rather than being assessed a fine, Rossi See Clinton Democrat page 6

Nancy Meinke is getting Clinton ready for America’s 250th birthday...............................2

On Frozen Pond Emma Gurnell, left, and Molly Walsh practice their stick handling skills on Exchange Club Pond in Old Saybrook on Saturday, Jan. 4. The new year started on a frigid note, with cold temperatures freezing local ponds and allowing skaters to take advantage of the conditions.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Harbor News

Captain Morgan sums up the local fishing year in review by referring to iffy weather.................................13

Trends in travel for 2026 include going with small groups and finding new places.................................19

Wishing you a happy & healthy 2026! SHARON LINDER

860-460-8862 | Sharonlinder@bhhsne.com

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Nancy Meinke Invites Clinton To Celebrate America 250 By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

Clinton, get ready to say “semiquincentennial.” The year 2026 marks the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence, and Clinton will join communities around the country in recognizing the important anniversary. Locally, those efforts are being spearheaded by Nancy Meinke. To honor the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence, municipalities across the country were asked to find ways to celebrate the occasion. In a statement, the national 250 committee describes the initiative as “an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.” In June 2024, Nancy was elected chairperson of Clinton’s local America 250 committee that was charged with brainstorming

Person

of the Week events for Clinton specifically to celebrate the nation’s semi-quincentennial (which Nancy stresses are pronounced “sem-i-quin-centen-ni-al:). After over 14 months of planning, now, Nancy and the Clinton committee are ready to tell the public what they have in store throughout 2026. “We are really excited, and we really want the whole community to be involved,” Nancy tells the Harbor News. The focal point of the 250 committee celebration will be a town wide party planned for the first week of August at Town Hall. The event will feature food, music, live signings of the Declaration of Independence, as well as

the participation of different community groups showcasing what the date means to them. “The goal for the town is to create a lasting tribute to this milestone event that will serve as a reminder of the Declaration’s enduring impact for future residents of Clinton,” says Nancy. “It’s an opportunity for everyone to be involved.” While the big event may not be until August, Nancy says that the committee will be holding smaller ongoing programming throughout the year. There will be a lecture series by David LeVasseur on Revolution-era history as well as a cemetery tour around Halloween highlighting graves from the Revolutionary era, materials from the Clinton Poet Laureate, contributions from Clinton school students and participation in the annual Boat Parade – where Nancy proudly notes the 250 committee-themed boat was See Nancy Meinke page 7

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Nancy Meinke is getting Clinton ready for America's 250th birthday.

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COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Inside Living

Triple Shows at LAA The Lyme Art Association (LAA) rings in the new year with three shows, including its annual associate artists show.........................................................................27 New Shows for 2026 New musicals and shows mark 2026 in Connecticut theaters....................................21 MLK Day Breakfast Renowned civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale will be the featured speaker at the 41st annual MLK Day Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 19, at Branford High School.....................................................................................................................................25

Quote

of the week

“People are seeking value, escape, and something new.”

Marcia Simon...........19

Index Letters................................................... 4 Horoscopes.......................................10 Crossword Puzzle...........................10 Sports..................................................12 Fishing................................................13 Tides....................................................14

Harbor News

(usps 021-276) Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Old Saybrook, CT 06475 Postmaster: Send address changes to Harbor News, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320

Classifieds..........................................15 Sudoku...............................................18 Living..................................................19 Calendar.............................................20 Real Estate.........................................31

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

to Letters the Editor Great Community Support Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook’s Hometown Newspaper

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

On Saturday, Dec. 13, the 55th annual Torchlight Parade took place. For the 37th year, The Old Saybrook Rotary Club hosted the hospitality tent at the end of the parade route on the Town Green. Rotarians prepared hot chocolate at the Estuary Council of Seniors’ kitchen, gathered donated baked goods from area businesses, and served the marchers and attendees who often endure wintry conditions. We thank the following businesses for their generous contributions of baked goods: Dunkin’ Donuts, Stop & Shop, Big Y Old Saybrook, Dagmar’s Desserts, Paperback Cafe, Mirsina’s Restaurant, Cafe Toscana, Starbucks, Pursuit of

Pastry, Luigi’s Restaurant, Beach Donut Shop, Shayna B’s by the Sea, Parthenon Diner, Edd’s Place, Doro Marketplace, Little Pub, and Walt’s Market. We also thank The Estuary Council of Seniors for the use of their facilities in preparing the hot chocolate. Thanks also to Chris Reid, who donates the hot chocolate, cups, napkins, and the heated tent. Chris’ grandfather Bill started it all in 1970. The Rotary Club is proud to support this festive event that is uniquely Old Saybrook. Jan Peruccio, President Old Saybrook Rotary Club

Shoreline Arts Alliance Accepting Applications for Scholarships in the Arts Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Editorial Staff

Shoreline Arts Alliance is now accepting applications for its annual Scholarships in the Arts program, open to juniors and seniors (or homeschooling equivalent) residing within Shoreline Arts Alliance’s 24-town region who will be pursuing an education in the arts. Eligible students may apply in the fields of creative writing, dance, instrumental music, theatre, visual art, and vocal music. Deserving students will be awarded scholarships ranging from $250 to $1,000. The winner in each category will receive a $1,000 scholarship for continuing education and/or supplies as well as a mentorship from a professional artist. Applicants will be contacted to schedule interviews and auditions. Students who are interested in the arts and reside in the 24town region (covering all of Middlesex County, Madison, Guilford, North Branford, Branford, and East Haven) are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through Thursday, Jan. 8. A nonrefundable fee of $25 is required with each application. The Jeffrey Dobbs Scholarship for Excellence in Painting and Richard S. Dart Memorial Arts Scholarship are also offered as part of the Shoreline Arts Alliance’s Scholarship in the Arts program. To submit an online application, visit shorelinearts.org. For more information, contact the Shoreline Arts Alliance at 203421-6739 or office@shorelinearts.

Singing Voices Wanted Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords, conducted by Samuel Tucker and accompanied by a 10-piece orchestra under the direction of Alan Dougherty, is currently seeking individuals to join its expanding alto, tenor, and bass sections. No auditions or prior experience are required—only a passion for singing and a commitment to the ensemble is necessary. Rehearsals will start Tuesday, Jan. 20, from 6:45 to 9 p.m. at St. Francis Church, Msgr. Fox Parish Hall, 10 Elm Street, Middletown, in preparation for the spring concert scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at Portland High School. New members may enroll through Tuesday, Feb. 3. For more information, call 860-342-3120 or visit vocalchords20.org.

Correction Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Eric O’Connell Harbor News

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

The best way to get hold of Serenity Bishop, Shore Publishing's news sports editor, is to email s.bishop@shorepublishing.com. Coaches and athletic directors who want to get in touch with Serenity are encouraged to give him a call at 203-245-1877, ext. 6141. Serenity's email was given incorrectly in last week's editions.

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Contacting Harbor News

Photo by June Getchius

Nice Girl Nahla Story by Carol Andrecs

It is time for our petite and adorable Nahla to find a home of her own. Nahla is a soft and silky 5-year-old female dilute tortoiseshell with a beautiful fluffy tail. Her markings are unique and extraordinary. Nahla loves to receive treats, and she also enjoys the company of other cats but prefers a quiet home without dogs. When she gets attention and is being petted, she will purr very loudly. For an appointment to meet sweet Nahla, stop by during our open house events or apply online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. Call the volunteer line at 860-669-1347 or send an email to volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.

Find Your Match at Forgotten Felines

Spectrum Holiday Show: The Art of Dreaming Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, hosts its holiday show, The Art of Dreaming through Saturday, Jan. 10. The gallery showcases representational and abstract art in all mediums—including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media—that explore the many dimensions of dreaming. Spectrum’s artisans store also offers fine crafts in wood, ceramic, pottery, glass, paper, fabric, jewelry, and more. In addition, the gallery has handmade ornaments in its six-foot holiday tree and seasonal items in all mediums. For more information, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.

The Estuary Offers Medical Appointment Rides The Estuary, located at 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, offers transportation to medical appointments to individuals aged 50 and over who are residents of the towns of Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Essex, Killingworth, Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. A driver will pick up a requesting senior resident from any of these towns, wait at the appointment, and bring the passenger home again. Cost varies from $25 to $50 depending on the location of the appointment. For more information, call David at 860-388-1611 ext. 203.

As your hometown paper, the Harbor News welcomes reader contributions and questions. If it’s important to you, we want to know about it. Here are the best ways to bring matters to our attention. LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Harbor News encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues. Writers may submit letters as often as every two weeks. Letters must include the writer’s full name, street address, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters submitted under pseudonyms, anonymously, or through third parties will be declined. Letters must be written by the submitter. No more than four signees are permitted per letter. Letters must be 300 words or fewer and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Letter writers may be asked to supply sources to corroborate information presented as fact in letters. Civility is required. Letters with personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined. For letters endorsing a political candidate, Shore Publishing will accept one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections to allow for candidate rebuttal. Letters must be received and verbally confirmed by 5 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Publication is subject to approval by the editor. Letter writers who knowingly violate this policy three times will be banned from submitting future letters to the editor. Letters may be submitted at www.zip06.com or email to shoreletters@shorepublishing.com. COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CALENDAR To have your item considered for print, please email news@shorepublishing.com. Announcements and calendar items are printed as space allows. Deadline for submissions is Tuesday at noon, nine days before publication. These are just a few ways to get involved in your newspaper. If you have an idea for a story, a question about news deadlines, or any other news-related inquiry, email news@shorepublishing.com or call the News Department at 203-245-1877, ext. 0. OBITUARIES The Harbor News publishes paid obituary notices in print and at Zip06.com. Obituaries should be sent to obits@theday.com. The deadline for all obituaries is Wednesday at 4 p.m., eight days prior to publication date. Obituaries will also be posted as quickly as possible at Zip06.com. ADVERTISING To speak with someone about newspaper and online advertising, contact the Sales Department at advertising@shorepublishing.com or 203-245-1877. All advertising is subject to the approval of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing shall have the right to revise, reject or cancel, in whole or in part, any advertisement at any time for any or no reason. LEGAL NOTICES To place a legal notice, email legal@theday.com or call 860-701-4410. CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad in the Classifieds section or in the Classifieds Service Directory, call 860-701-4200 and/or email classifiedads@theday.com. CIRCULATION To speak with someone about receiving or canceling the paper, please call 203-245-1877, ext. 6 or email shorecirculation@shorepublishing.com. Harbor News 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 news@shorepublishing.com 203-245-1877 Fax 203-245-9773

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Stories and features denoted with the Shore Publishing “Sponsored” icon are sponsored by advertisers. Sponsored content is content created or commissioned by advertisers in collaboration with Shore Publishing’s marketing team. As with all advertising, sponsored content does not necessarily reflect the views of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing will ensure the treatment and design of Advertising and Sponsored Content is clearly differentiated from its editorial content.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Christmas Tree Pick-up Cub Scout Pack 21 will hold its annual Christmas tree pick-up and haul away Christmas trees in the towns of Old Saybrook and Essex for a suggested donation of $20. Cash or checks are accepted on pick-up day. The remaining pick-up day is Saturday, Jan. 10. Christmas trees can be left out by 8 a.m. for pick-up. For more information or to request a pick-up, email pack21treepickup@gmail.com.

Need Help with Challenging Children? Struggling to understand your child's behavior? National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Shoreline and Guilford Youth and Family Services are offering free Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) classes. CPS is a non-punitive approach to helping adults care for challenging children of all ages, grounded in 50 years of neuroscientific research. The class runs for six weeks, starting Thursday, Jan. 8, through Thursday, Feb. 12. Sessions will take place on Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. via Zoom. Registration is required. To register, email DivinnaSchmitt@gmail.com. For more information, text Divinna Schmitt at 860-876-0236 or visit ThinkKids.org.

The Hart House Heritage Gardens Seek Volunteers The Old Saybrook Historical Society gardeners welcome additional volunteers on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon at 350 Main Street, Old Saybrook. The gardeners maintain this spot in town and volunteers are welcome to join. For more information, call Linda Kinsella at 860-399-6263.

Clinton Democrat Agrees To Consent Order With SEEC Continued from page 1 was given a written consent order where he was strictly ordered to comply with the state law in the future. Under its purview, the SEEC could have assessed a fine of up to $2,000, but the consent order noted several mitigating factors explaining why the commission felt a fine was unnecessary. One was that DTC chairman Paul Gebauer was appointed to take over as treasurer after Rossi resigned as treasurer and before the complaint was filed with the SEEC. The SEEC’s consent order said that the investigation showed that that the financial disclosure forms from the campaign were filed by Gebauer from July 1 to Oct. 26. The order also said that Rossi had no previous instances of similar acts or omissions. Rossi told the Harbor News he had no further comment to make other than "I made an honest error. I accept that and apologize." b

The Complaint and Explanation LEGAL NOTICE for TAX INSTALLMENT DUE GRAND LIST OCTOBER 1, 2024 Tax Due - January 1, 2026 Town of OLD SAYBROOK Tax Collector, Town Hall, 302 Main Street Office hours: 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday (except holidays or as posted) The second installment of Town Tax on Grand List of October 1, 2024, and the Motor Vehicle Supplemental list thereto is due and payable January 1, 2026. If not paid on or before February 2, 2026 the installment becomes delinquent and subject to interest at a rate of 18% per annum (1 ½ % for each month or fraction thereof) dating back to the original due date of the bill. A minimum interest charge of $2.00 is applicable to each delinquent tax bill. Two months of interest (3%) will be due on February 2, 2026 (1 ½% for each month of Jan. & Feb.). Payment can be made at the Tax Office, Town Hall, 302 Main Street, or you may pay by mail. Please return payment coupon(s) attached to bill with your payment. Mail postmarked (U S Postal Service postmark only) on or before February 2, 2026 is to be considered an on time payment. If you would like a receipt returned to you send the bill stub, your payment and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the Tax Office. A receipt will be returned as soon as payment is processed. No self-addressed stamped envelope / no receipt when payment is made by mail. Payment may also be made electronically from the Town’s web-site: www.oldsaybrookct.org – click on ‘Look-up & Pay Tax Bill” and then “Click here to Proceed to Online Tax Payment”. Using a Credit Card there is a 2.5% fee ($2.00 min) – Debit Card a flat fee of $3.95 - Electronic Check flat fee of $.95. Please consider making your payment by mail to avoid waiting/standing in-line. As a matter of law, the taxpayer is liable to the Town for the tax installment(s) as they become due and payable. Liability is not created by, nor dependent upon the taxpayer having received a tax bill. Therefore, failure to receive a bill does not relieve the taxpayer of the requirement to pay statutorily required interest when a late payment is made. Note: we do not re-bill in December for January installment of tax due – the original bill was sent in mid June for July and January installment(s) (payment coupons attached for each payment due). Erin Colwell Tax Collector

On Oct. 15, the SEEC voted to investigate the complaint against Rossi made by Robert Corson, the chairman of the Clinton Republican Town Committee. Corson’s complaint centered on Rossi’s stint as the treasurer for the Democratic Town Committee from 2024 to late 2025. Under Connecticut law, a candidate is generally prohibited from serving as their own campaign treasurer or deputy campaign treasurer, though some exceptions can be made. Rossi was one of five candidates for a seat on the Planning and Zoning Commission in the 2025 municipal election. All candidates in the race were elected. Rossi and Gebauer told the Harbor News earlier in 2025 that Rossi had actually resigned after the caucus at which he was nominated to be candidate in July. “At that time, I didn't know I couldn't continue as the treasurer. I learned of this from a call from the RTC chair on the following Monday or Tuesday and immediately called Paul and resigned as treasurer,” Rossi told the Harbor News in November. Gebauer said that despite him being the one who has been carrying out treasurer duties, while he was filing more paper-

work in October he was told by a state official that Rossi’s resignation as treasurer hadn’t been officially recognized yet due to missing requirements, which Gebauer said he then fixed. In its investigation, the SEEC determined that Rossi had been listed as both treasurer and candidate for 77 days before he was officially replaced by Gebauer in early October. Corson, meanwhile, told the Harbor News that he had noticed that Rossi was still listed as a treasurer in October, even after he had personally informed Rossi months earlier that this was a violation, so he filed the complaint with the SEEC. Assuming the SEEC votes to accept the consent order with Rossi, it would mark the second time in 2025 that the SEEC has entered into a consent agreement with a Clinton Democrat after a violation was found. In April the SEEC handed down a written reprimand to Town Council member Brian Roccapriore after former Democratic Registrar of Voters June Hansen filed a complaint with the SEEC after Election Day in 2024 that said Roccapriore had repeatedly entered a polling station to get updated vote totals in violation of a state election law. The consent order instructed him to comply with the state law in the future. Asked previously for comment on the two complaints in one year, Gebauer called the violations “minor” and added “aside from a warning, there was no penalty in either case.” When Corson was asked for comment on the potential resolution of his complaint against Rossi, Corson said he was irked by Gebauer’s past comments calling the allegations minor rather than taking ownership of the situation. Corson declined to further comment, instead saying he was awaiting formal response from the SEEC, but added he would be sharing Gebauer's previous comments with the SEEC to demonstrate what he felt was a dismissive attitude toward SEEC violations by the Clinton DTC. Gebauer again told the Harbor News he stands by calling the violations minor. "They can keep looking at every little thing we do. We will keep focusing on winning elections," Gebauer said.

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Nancy Meinke Invites Clinton To Celebrate America 250 Continued from page 2 recognized for its decorations in the 2025 parade. Asked what her favorite event the committee has planned is, Nancy points to a program that will be ongoing throughout 2026. “We’re going to do a series where people can explain who they are either in written statements or they can submit short video or audio clips and we’ll share them on the website. Everyone has a story to tell, and we want people to tell us about themselves. I’m so excited about the stories.” The parameters for the submissions to the series will be posted online. Nancy is quick to direct the public’s attention to the town website and to the Facebook page “America 250 Clinton” which will share more information about upcoming events. Additionally, any individuals or groups seeking to sponsor an event or help participate in an event can contact Nancy at nnmeinke@gmail.com. Nancy’s journey to becoming involved in the 250 committee and coming to Clinton is not your typical story. Nancy and her husband came to Clinton three years ago aboard a house boat they had renovated to live on fulltime and planned to stop in Clinton only to visit family in the area. Life had other plans, however, and Clinton

became a fulltime home. “Then one day my daughter told me she saw an ad for the 250 committee and said ‘mom this really seems up your alley’, and I hadn’t really been involved in town yet, so I joined,” Nancy explains. While she concedes she’s not much of a history buff herself, Nancy was actually a volunteer for the Roxbury, Connecticut, bicentennial celebration, an event that she says proved formative for her. “I was always sticking my neck out to be involved with initiatives over the years, especially when my kids were in school,” Nancy says of her past civic involvement. Additionally, Nancy says she was motivated to join the committee after reading comments from the bipartisan national 250 committee stressing that the event is “a once in a lifetime celebration” and thinking about how fun it would be to help organize such an event on the local level. “My goal is just simply to bring the community together,” Nancy says. Though she isn’t a Clinton native, Nancy says the town has certainly grown on her quickly. “I love the Harbor area. We’re all boaters in my family; we love to go clamming. It’s really just a nice community. I also love Café Nola and spending time there,” says Nancy.

Applications Welcome for Fine Art Students The Lyme Academy of Fine Art, 84 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, announces it is accepting online applications to its Core Drawing and Painting Program or Core Sculpture Program. Students of all levels are encouraged to apply. The academy is primarily seeking students who demonstrate a strong work ethic and commitment to the challenges of a rigorous program. The application deadlines are Sunday, March 1, for early decision and Monday, June 1, for regular decision. The notification dates are Wednesday, April 1, and Tuesday, June 30. Students may enter the Core Programs during the fall trimester. For more information, visit lymeacademy.edu.

Interested in Improving Your Public Speaking Skills? The Valley Shore Toastmasters Club meets every first and third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Road. The aim is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where participants can improve their public speaking skills. For more information, email president-3940@toastmastersclubs.org or visit www.3940.toastmastersclubs.org.

VFW Post 9918 Seeks New Members Clinton VFW Post 9918 meets at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at 82 West Main Street, Clinton. Those who have served overseas during a time of war may be eligible for membership. For more information, call 475-329-1169.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Choral Scholarship Program for High School Students

Scholarships for Connecticut Women

High school students are invited to audition for a place in The Anglican Singers, artists-in-residence at St. James Episcopal Church in New London. The choir is dedicated to preserving the English choral tradition of choral evensong. Selected singers will rehearse weekly from September through May in New London, receive instruction from Music Director Simon Holt, and sing alongside experienced vocalists. The group performs up to eight services and concerts during the season at St. James Episcopal Church, 76 Federal Street, New London, and at venues from Mystic to New Haven. Students accepted into the program must pass an audition with Holt and will receive a $500 stipend toward voice lessons or relevant training. Positions are open in the soprano, alto, tenor, and bass sections. For more information or to audition, email Simon Holt at smo.artisticdirector@yahoo.com.

The Connecticut Federation of Women’s Clubs announces two scholarships for Connecticut women pursuing advanced courses of study at institutions of higher learning. Awards are granted on the basis of future promise, scholastic ability, and financial need. The Dorothy E. Schoelzel memorial scholarship has a maximum award of $2,000. Candidates must have completed three or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher in the field of education. The Phipps scholarship has a maximum award of $1,000. Candidates must have completed two or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher toward a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree. Completed applications, including general and personal information, a financial statement, instructor/employer references, and an official transcript of at least the most recent two years of undergraduate or graduate work, must be received by Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026. To download an application form, visit northfordnbwomensclubgfwc.org/education. For more information, call Rose Lynch at 203-483-8395.

Volunteer Opportunity to Help Others The nonprofit hospice program of Yale Health at Home has volunteer opportunities in the following areas: patient/caregiver companions; complementary therapies, including massage, Reiki, reflexology, pet therapy, art, and music; bereavement and spiritual support; and veteran-to-veteran. Volunteers receive free mandatory screenings, training, the support and appreciation of a team, and more. Volunteers can choose their preferred towns from those served by the hospice program, which include Branford, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, East Haven, Essex, Guilford, Killingworth, Madison, North Branford, North Haven, Northford, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. For more information, contact Jo Ann Begley at 203-453-7659 or joann.begley@ynhh.org, or visit ynhhs.org/health-at-home/about/volunteer.

Town of Clinton Planning & Zoning Commission 54 East Main Street Clinton, CT 06413 Legal Notice of Public Hearing Town of Clinton in the Town Hall Green Room The Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following: PZC-25-24: Map Amendment for Zone change pursuant to Section 4.20.2 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 109 West Main Street, Map 33, Block 10, Lot 25, Zone B-4 and R-20. Applicant: Michael P. Harkin, Harkin Engineering, LLC. At said Hearing, all persons will have the right to be heard. The application(s) and correspondence are available for public inspection on the Town’s website. Anyone requiring special accommodation to participate in the public meeting should contact the Land Use Office at 860-669-6133. Michael Rossi, Chairman, Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission.

Westbrook Garden Club Welcomes New Members The Westbrook Garden Club has an open membership policy which welcomes anyone in neighboring towns to become members. The club offers public projects that involve and support conservation, gardening, horticulture, landscaping, and more. For more information, email westbrookgardenclubct@yahoo.com.

Wellness Services for Older Adults Offered at The Estuary The Estuary, 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, offers wellness services to adults aged 50 and over living in the estuary region. Services are by appointment and include footcare (Mondays), haircuts (Tuesdays and Thursdays), massage (first Tuesday of each month), Medicare counseling (first Tuesday of each month), hearing clinics (last Wednesday of each month), and mental health support. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 860-388-1611 ext. 202.

Side Show: In Concert Brief Cameo Productions announces its 2026 production, Side Show: In Concert, to be held Friday, Jan. 16, and Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. at the Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main Street. Sponsorship packages include reserved seated ticketing and other perks. General admission tickets cost $30. For more information or tickets, visit briefcameoproductions.com.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF WESTBROOK TAX OFFICE TAX COLLECTOR KIMBERLY BRATZ IS NOTIFYING TAXPAYERS THAT THE SECOND HALF PAYMENT OF REAL ESTATE; PERSONAL PROPERTY AND MOTOR VEHICLE SUPPLEMENTAL TAXES ON THE GRAND LIST OF OCTOBER 1, 2024 ARE DUE AND PAYABLE DURING THE MONTH OF JANUARY, 2026. TAX PAYMENTS MAY BE MAILED TO: TAX COLLECTOR TOWN OF WESTBROOK 866 BOSTON POST RD WESTBROOK, CT 06498 IF YOU NEED A RECEIPTED BILL, PLEASE SEND THE ENTIRE BILL ALONG WITH A SELF ADDRESSED STAMPED ENVELOPE TO THE TAX OFFICE. A RECEIPTED BILL WILL BE SENT BACK TO YOU FOR YOUR RECORDS. YOU CAN ALSO PAY ONLINE AT WESTBROOKCT.US. IF YOU PAY WITH AN E-CHECK THERE IS A $2.00 FEE IF YOU PAY BY CREDIT CARD THERE WILL BE A 2.5% PROCESSING FEE. VISA DEBIT CARDS WILL BE CHARGED $3.95. TAXES WILL BE CONSIDERED DELINQUENT AS OF FEBRUARY 3, 2026 AND ON THAT DATE, INTEREST WILL BE CHARGED FROM THE ORIGINAL DUE DATE OF JANUARY 1, 2026. INTEREST IS CHARGED AT 18% PER ANNUM IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROVISIONS OF C.G.S. SEC 12-146.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING: Town of Westbrook Plan of Conservation and Development 2026-2036 Notice is hereby given that on January 12, 2026; the Town of Westbrook Planning Commission will hold a public hearing for the purposes of reviewing and possibly acting on the proposed Plan of Conservation and Development for 2026-2036 at 7:00pm in the Multimedia Room of Mulvey Municipal Center (Town Hall), at 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT 06498. At this hearing, persons may appear in person to be heard or submit written comments to be read into the record. This meeting will be available via zoom and accessible via the link below: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83096803905?pwd=4NcA5Jjmh16yCiW7RUqpPNupQEi2Ri.1 Meeting ID: 830 9680 3905 Passcode: 935893 Copies of the proposed plan are available in; the Land Use Office, Town Clerks’ Office, and on the Town Website (www.WestbrookCT.us).

TAX OFFICE HOURS ARE MONDAY – WEDNESDAY 9AM-4PM, THURSDAY 9AM-7PM, FRIDAY 9AM12PM.

Contact the Westbrook Land Use Office with any questions regarding this matter at: (860)399-3091.

KIMBERLY BRATZ, CCMC TAX COLLECTOR

Dated December 10th, 2025 – Town of Westbrook

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

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JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Horoscopes

Crossword

For the week of January 8 - January 14 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Minor obstacles are in your path, Aries. It’s easy to get frustrated right now. Once you clear the hurdles it will be smoother sailing before long. Remain patient.

Your energy will remain high this week, Libra, enabling you to come up with some innovative ideas that have true staying power. Pursue your options.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21 You treasure family and friends, Taurus. This week calls for an important decision that could affect them all. It may be challenging, but you will make the right call. GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, you may have to reset your priorities, as new information has come to the surface. Prioritize responsibilities so major issues are taken care of first. CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22 Unavoidable situations may cross your path this week, Cancer. It is important that you stay the course. Committing to tackling things head-on is the most productive approach. LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23 It may be tempting to shirk your responsibilities right now, Leo. Resist that temptation. Keep your head down and keep on working. It will soon prove worth it. VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, be confident and listen to your instincts, Libra. Do so before taking on any important tasks that might turn up in the days or weeks to come. A surprise might be around the corner.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22 The conditions are right for finishing an important task, Scorpio. You will be able to come up with wonderful ideas that have true staying power. Pursue your options. SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you have been working hard lately and this may result in an overactive and tired mind. You should factor in a break so you can recharge your body and spirit. CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20 Focus on keeping your cool even if that proves difficult, Capricorn. Be the bigger person in all of your interactions. You have a strong ability to control of your emotions. AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you may feel uneasy or worried for unknown reasons. Trust your gut in this instance and steer clear of trouble should it try to get in your way this week. PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20 Family tops your list of priorities right now, Pisces. You are likely to spend considerable time with loved ones in the days to come. Relish in all the opportunities to connect.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

Crossword solution for January 1, 2026

JANUARY 8 Cynthia Erivo, Actress (39) JANUARY 9 Catherine Princess of Wales (44) JANUARY 10 Mason Mount, Athlete (27) JANUARY 11 Marc Blucas, Actor (54)

JANUARY 12 Rob Zombie, Singer (61) JANUARY 13 Liam Hemsworth, Actor (36) JANUARY 14 Dave Grohl, Singer (57)

CLUES ACROSS 1. Lakes 6. Electromotive force 9. Invests in little enterprises 13. Longtime Utah Jazz coach 14. Small sailboat 15. Actor Idris 16. Mild yellow Dutch cheese made in balls 17. System that detects objects under water 18. Harsh, grating noise 19. Steward 21. A fencing sword 22. Infections 23. Actress Ryan 24. Sodium 25. Swedish castle 28. A lump of slime 29. African antelope 31. Insurance providers 33. Choosy 36. Ringworm 38. Unpolished 39. Drenches 41. Pant style 44. Son of Noah 45. Spiritual being 46. Upton Sinclair novel 48. Journalist Tarbell 49. Popular sports highlight show 51. Born of 52. Rich tapestry 54. S. China seaport 56. State of being unclothed 60. Surrounded by 61. Residue 62. Away from wind 63. Dried-up 64. Visionary 65. A very large body of water 66. Garden tools 67. Screen type 68. Ancient Scandinavian poet

CLUES DOWN 1. Millisecond 2. Spanish city 3. A sudden very loud sound 4. “The Indiana Jones of beer” 5. Tin 6. Sea eagles 7. Volcanic crater 8. Type of coat 9. Women’s apartments in Ottoman palace 10. Divulge a secret 11. Norwegian playwright 12. “It’s a Wonderful Life” director 14. Poisonous perennial plant 17. 18-year astronomical period 20. Clothes 21. Places to sit 23. Family of regulator genes 25. New York ballplayer 26. Impressive in size or scope 27. Jacques __, French biologist 29. One from the Big Apple 30. Genus of woolly lemurs 32. Songs to one’s beloved 34. Indigenous person of N.E. Thailand 35. Supplemented with difficulty 37. Farewell 40. Investment account (abbr.) 42. One from Utah 43. Begets 47. A male child 49. Break apart 50. Brief appearance 52. Partner to “oohed” 53. A light informal meal 55. Fabric with smooth, shiny surface 56. One billionth of a second 57. Ancient Italian-Greek colony 58. Close tightly 59. Mail out 61. Language 65. Computer characteristic

Word Search

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.

RESOLUTIONS WORD SEARCH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for January 1, 2026: STORE

ACCOUNTABILITY ACHIEVEMENT ASPIRATION CHANGE COMMITMENT DETERMINATION DISCIPLINE FOCUS GOAL HABIT IMPROVEMENT INTENTION MILESTONE MINDSET MOTIVATION OBJECTIVE PERSISTENCE PLAN PROGRESS PROMISE RENEWAL ROUTINE TRANSFORMATION VISION Word Search solution for January 1, 2026

Sports

HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026 • SPORTS

Harbor News Valley Courier Thursday, January 8, 2026

North Branford Shifting to Defensive Focus By Serenity J. Bishop Sports Editor

The North Branford Boys’ Ice Hockey co-op team has stumbled out of the gates to start the season, but coaches and players are remaining optimistic as they learn from each team they face. The ice hockey team, which includes players from Coginchaug, HaddamKillingworth, Old Saybrook, and Portland, has fallen to 1-4 within its first five games. The team’s latest loss came from a 9-5 defeat to North Haven. North Branford went down 5-0 early in the matchup. North Haven scored on their first three or four shots, but after a talk in the lockeroom North Branford settled down and rallied to within one point before losing grip of a pending comeback. Despite the loss, North Branford has proven early in the season that they are made of the right stuff. They are just one or two mistakes away from securing more victories than losses. North Branford coach Ralph Shaw said the team is playing with heart, and that’s what keeps them in the game. “We definitely have a lot of heart. I give credit to these guys. They’re working hard,” Shaw said. “We’re trying to focus on defense first. Each game we played this year so far we’ve had some highs and lows on our defensive side. If we can fine-tune it a little bit, things will improve for us.” Shaw added in the 9-5 loss to North Haven, the team proved that they can keep chipping away and make adjustments on the fly. He gave credit to North Haven for the challenge they presented for North Branford to now learn from. “North Haven is a talented team. They work the puck; they kept a lot of pressure on us. So I give them a lot of credit, I don’t fault my guys. We could have folded up shop when we were down 5-0, but they came back and kept working,” he said. “I’m proud of my guys. I told them in the locker room to keep working. I know we’re frustrated, but if you keep putting forth the effort and the energy that we need, then good things are going to happen.” The frustration for North Branford is not just based on the slow start to the sea-

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Captain Nick Maher (28). North Branford boys ice hockey was defeated 9-5 by North Haven on January 3 at Northford Ice Pavilion.

son. It stems back to last season, where the team finished with a 4-16 record and failed to qualify for the state tournament. The disappointing season last year has also shaped the goals for the team this season. North Branford is aiming to win at least eight games in order to secure their spot in the state tournament and contend for a title once the postseason arrives. Shaw said it’s a one-game-at-a-time mentality. “We had a rough year last year. It’s a fine line to walk when we went 4-16 last year, and this year we’re coming out 1-4.

That’s something that weighs on your mind, and I know for these guys, they’re a little vulnerable to that,” Shaw said. “There’s a lot of hockey to play. A lot of things we can accomplish. We’re not a bad team; we just have to put some stuff together. We have a gutsy team, they’re eager to win.” North Branford is led by Cameron Gauvin, TJ Connelly, and Max Becker. Shaw describes Becker as the energy of the team, Connelly as the senior captain who acts as the spark plug to his unit, and Gauvin as the defensive rock.

He also recognized newcomers Evan Brown and Charlie De, who have been able to put the puck in the net early in the season. “We’ve lost some crazy games, but we’ve been scoring goals. If we just focus on tightening down on defense more, I think we’ll be good,” Shaw said. “The guys are buying in. You have mental breakdowns throughout the course of the game, but it’s a process.” North Branford returns to the rink on Wednesday, Jan. 14

SPORTS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

The Fishing Year in Review for 2025

Fishing report CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

By Captain Morgan Special to Harbor News

The year 2025 was a year of weather and/or whether. More often than not, fishing trips had to be molded around impending weather fronts that were as predictable as the winning lottery ticket. Then one had to gaze into the immediate future and decide whether or not to venture out on Long Island Sound (or beyond) to fish or turn inland to hit the sweet water. Before that, short blasts of snow hit the shoreline - even a taste or two of a nor-easter - brought the rumbling of snow plows. Freezing temperatures also enlisted the work of USCG Cutter Bollard, the primary ice breaker, aided by the Howser and Cleat, to clear the Connecticut River. Ospreys got into their routine late some nests doing better than others. Fish migrations heading north stalled their arrival while boaters’ plans were deferred on more than one occasion due to inclement weather, leaving marinas with a backlog and weekenders running around getting their vessels sea-ready in time for the upcoming season. There were more ice fishing opportunities early on - significantly less by the immediate shoreline. Hard water species normally caught through the ice did not disappoint - neither did trout waters for anglers who enjoyed the solitude and challenges that winter brought. The typical tidal rivers brought anglers to Atlantic salmon waters where broodstock were fought between the dams, sea-run brown trout were running upstream and holdover striped bass were gathered. Most ‘linesiders’ were caught and released while, fortunately, other misguided anglers had to pay the price for disregarding common sense regulations and attempted to poach their way around without getting caught. Colorful brookies were coaxed to take a fly or small inline spinner while being fished in Class-designated rivers as rainbows and browns danced the cool waters with anglers casting artificials in their direction. Trout stockings covered most of the popular hard water spots that did experience good flags while happy jiggers and several family and friend gettogethers gathered around a cozy campground setting. Wind was not friendly!

Photo montage courtesy of Captain Morgan

Throughout 2025, fishing the sweet and briny waters produced an array of fish species and many personal bests, but weather reared its challenging head as weather fronts dashed plans while other days turned out to be spectacular.

As spring approached, in fact, it was the weather that reared its ugly head interrupting the stocking program. In some cases it was the ice, but more to the point, it was the water levels and, in some cases, flows that caused any disruption. The end result, though, was that trout stocking was over the top and successfully kept anglers into fish all season. Lake and pond fishing kicked off early with good largemouth, smallmouth, and pickerel catches. Panfish fired up along with white perch, some northern pike, channel catfish and river carp. Bowfin caught attention while shortnose sturgeon were encountered breaching in the Connecticut River during spawning season - startling, yet stunning to witness. Inland fishing continued to be a bed of

‘hot’ activity throughout the whole season. By spring, striped bass livened up the holdover rivers when they moved down, creating untold interactions with fishers catching and releasing numbers of belowthe-slot fish. Around the same time, blackfish (tautog) season opened for the month of April. Wind direction and weather were big factors despite warmer water. Small and short fish were the norm in light of a few fish caught further up the ladder. Few fishers attempted winter flounder even though bays and some channels held these flatties. If one knew the spots and winds calmed down enough, the limit of two fish were generally caught using soft baits and chum. Weather continued to play into fishing

plans as by now, anglers sensed that coastal migrations of fish hit the delay button. Normal signs of baitfish were missing - even some of the winter river herring normally found upriver were not too quick to move down. Small harbor bluefish were in short supply compounding May’s marina dump due to weather setbacks. Eventually they showed up, along with small stripers that eventually ushered in slot and over-the-slot fish. Rain and wind continued to upset plans - but not for the weakfish run. Sizes were not as impressive as last season and the one before that however, they were one of the species caught pretty much throughout the season. These Squeteagues took See page 14

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • SPORTS

The Fishing Year in Review for 2025

Schedules MORGAN

Continued from page 13

Friday, Jan. 9: at East Hampton at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13: vs.Portland at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: at Lyme-Old Lyme at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 10: at Canton at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: at Jonathan Law at 7 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball

Wrestling

b b

Girls’ Basketball Friday, Jan. 9: vs. East Hampton at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12: vs. Suffield at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13: at Portland at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: vs. Lyme-Old Lyme at 7 p.m.

Boys Ice Hockey (East Haven Coop) Saturday, Jan. 10: at Eagles Hockey at 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: vs. Amity at 6:15 p.m.

OLD SAYBROOK b

Boys’ Basketball Friday, Jan. 9: at Portland at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13: at North Branford at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: vs. Haddam Killingworth at 7 p.m.

Boys’ Ice Hockey (North Branford Coop) Wednesday, Jan. 14: at Woodstock Academy at 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball Friday, Jan. 9: vs. Portland at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13: vs. North Branford at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: at Haddam Killingworth at 7 p.m.

Girls’ Ice Hockey (Daniel Hand Coop) Thursday, Jan. 8: vs. Guilford at 3:10 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11: vs. Hall at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: vs. Masuk at 4 p.m.

WESTBROOK b

Friday, Jan. 9: vs. Coginchaug at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12: at Cromwell at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: vs. Parish Hill at 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: Vs. East Hampton at 6 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 8: vs. Guilford at 3:10 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11: vs. Hall at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: vs. Masuk at 4 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Ice Hockey (Daniel Hand Coop)

Girls’ Basketball Friday, Jan. 9: at Coginchaug at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12: vs. Cromwell at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14: vs. Parish Hill at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16: at East Hampton at 6 p.m.

HIGH

Tides

WESTBROOK Jan. 8 to Jan. 14

Day 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

A.M. 2:14 3:05 3:56 4:49 5:43 6:37 7:29

P.M. 2:33 3:26 4:22 5:19 6:18 7:14 8:04

artificials (including flies) and bait as they penetrated the Sound making their way to spawning and feeding grounds. Catches of decent fluke were made as the season developed in spite of the high numbers of shorts but that did not stop the serious fluke hunters. Water temps warmed which turned scup, spot croaker and black sea bass collectively, into a key popular bottom fishery. Reefs and rock piles held fish pretty much throughout most of the Sound and reef fishers took full advantage of the action. Overall, striped sea robins left anglers wanting, but brown sharks, sand tigers and dogfish added another dimension to one’s fishing. Again, striped bass were the target of those brown (sandbar) sharks. We saw numbers of cownose stingrays and skate, oyster toadfish and other miscellaneous bottom fish, like gray trigger and ladyfish. As Fall rolled in, the fishery began to bulk up while reef fish fed aggressively before edging into deeper water. Short fish were annoying to say the least, but eyeopening catches did turn heads. Blackfish were peppered by fishers with jigs and rigs - some of which scored some nice 8-10 pound togs but most fell either short or within 3-5 pounds. There was about a week or so of some fairly good blitz action something that the season needed. Lowering Fall temps also brought in bonito and sparse runs of false albacore. The better runs were definitely out by the ‘pork chop’ and the vineyard where hardtails proved to be impressive. Farther out, the tuna bite was good inbetween weather fronts and prior to the bluefin shutdown. As was expected, after migrating striped bass slipped through and out of the Sound on their coastal journey south, holdover ‘linesiders’ began staging before entering their winter tidal rivers. Once water temperatures tanked in the salt, it was ‘Sayonara’ unless fishing tidal rivers, specifically the Housatonic lower tidal river where ‘new’ regulations are meant to have a serious deterrence effect on poachers, was a destination. After that, it was deep water, warm-railed headboat fishing, soft water for trout and lake/pond fishing for either open or hard water excursions. Oh yes, and of course, there were trips to our southern warm waters and the tropics.

On The Water: One of the few December surprises, Winter Storm Devin delivered a mix of everything - most notably, snowpacks and ice covering the shoreline! The area remained behind a bitter cold front with low pressure remaining to the north bringing a long-lasting cold airmass. A cold front moved through with low pressure that developed east of the area. High pressure finally built followed by a another cold front then followed both high and low pressure pressure systems. Pre-dawn air temperatures dipped to single digits as daytime ones barely topped the teens with some days hitting above freezing. Long Island Sound water temps dropped to 35ºF, dense fog blanketed the shoreline and gale force winds drove seas from relatively calm to times of 8-10 feet before Gale Warnings were dropped. The mix of windy, wintry conditions saw limited hard water action and plenty of false flags as south of I-95 played with intermittent, nearly ‘safe’ ice. Trout and Atlantic salmon kept open water in play along with a few other species like pickerel and panfish. Trips to our southern warm waters increased along with those to the Caribbean while up north, headboat trips battled a schedule fraught with wind. Time was spent by many anglers getting a jump on gear prep for the upcoming 2026 season. Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media. Or, contact Captain Morgan for a fly fishing trip of a lifetime to a remote national or international fishing destination. For all things fishy including ice fishing, bait, the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rod/reel service and repair, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2026 licenses/permits and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison or call 203-245-8665 for updated winter hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better. Tight Lines, Captain Morgan captainmorganusa@hotmail.com captainmorgan-fish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa

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HARBOR NEWS • CLASSIFIEDS • 15

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860.331.9901

4gelectricct@gmail.com • fb.me/4GElectric

The Original

Owner/ Operator Scott Behler

Complete Site Work - Paving - Driveways Mulch, Stone, Screened Topsoil, Sand & Gravel Community

Water Mains, Sewers

www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665

WINDOW CLEANING, CARPETS & FLOORS RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIALTel. CLEANING P.O. Box 589,

Madison, CT 06443

Scott’s Gutter Fully Insured Cleaning HIC #0634550

No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters

in print every week & online every day at zip06.com 203-245-1877 Ext. 6130 860-701-4200

203-245-8647

Daniel Brown Electric LLC • New Construction • Generators Chargers • Remodeling/ • Car Landscape Lighting Additions • Pools • Service Upgrades • Troubleshooting • Kitchens • Baths • Finished Basements

860-399-4444

CT License #199056-E1 Licensed & Fully Insured P.O. Box 221, Westbrook, CT 06498

GUTTER SERVICES

CLUTTER IN THE GUTTER

756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT

SPECIALIZING IN WINDOW CLEANING, SPECIALIZING IN RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING

39 ORCHARD PARK ROAD • MADISON

EXCAVATING

House Sites, Septic Systems, Demolition

ROWELLCLEANING CLEANING ROWELL SERVICELLC LLC SERVICE S

ELECTRICAL

License #ELC.0203098-E1 Fully Insured

licensed /insured HIC #0678344

203-245-8647

Marc Geoghegan

203-996-4981 Brian

email. rcsllc64@gmail.com

DECK RESTORE Free Estimates beautify your home.

LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590

CLEANING SERVICES

DRYWALL

Decks/Hardwood Floors Decks Cleaned/Repaired/Sanded &Power Stained • Hardwood Floors Washing of Homes Patios & Walkways Power Washed Protect your investment,

Jim 203-530-2670

HIC # 0646127

Joseph Casanova Jr.

Sanding/Refinishing Softwash House Cleaning

Lic. #578530

Repairs • Remodeling

WINDOWS DOORS SIDING GUTTERS ROOFING

Guilford, CT.

Stephen S. Simonetti Licensed & Insured

Roof Repairs • Handyman Services Power Washing • Roof Washing Black Stains & Algae Removal Prompt Courteous Service, Done on Time

203-466-0520

HIRE A VETERAN

Green Gloves L Gutters, LC

SEAMLESS GUTTERS • Installation • Repair • Cleaning • Roofing • Window Replacement • Remodeling • Gutter Gaurds • Siding

203-245-9448

SERVING MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW HAVEN COUNTY & FAIRFIELD COUNTY

GREENGLOVESGUTTERS.COM

SERVICE DIRECTORY

JANUARY 8, 2026 JUNK REMOVAL

HARBOR NEWS • CLASSIFIEDS • 17 LANDSCAPING

Commercial & Residential

JUNK REMOVAL SERVICES

Locally Owned and Operated Family Business

• General Waste Removal • Construction Debris • Sheetrock Demo • Shed and Deck Demo & Removal • Oil Tanks and Drums • Garage Cleanouts

CHAMPLIN’S LANDSCAPING & EXCAVATION • Fall Clean Up • Snow Plowing • Shrub Pruning • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding

We Donate & Recycle!

860-415-3313

860-510-3509

SENIOR DISCOUNT

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• Fence Repair • Gravel Driveways • Excavator Work • Shed Demolition • Junk Removal

FULLY INSURED

www.violalandscaping.com 860-635-1030 office@violalandscapingllc.com

LANDSCAPING

Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans

residential

MASONRY

MOVING

OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP

NEED SOMETHING MOVED?

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Will do Dump Runs also. Call Luke at

Stone Walls • New Fireplaces Special Steps • Stone Design Swimming Pools • Sidewalks • Stucco Chimneys • Patio Bricks & Blocks Small & Large Jobs

203-464-0444 PAINTING

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(exp. 4.30.26)

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Serving the Shoreline Area Since 1996 Call today for consultation 860-767-2811 like us www.sullivanlawnservices.com CT HIC #0606162

Cell (203) 598-2524

ot m a RC egC oR notpmaRRC ePLUMBING gnRampton o R ogeR C ogeR Rampton RRogeR CpR Rampton RRogeR CRampton PAINTING SERVICES

CT HIC#06060162 CT Lic# P1-0204385

FINANCING AVAILABLE

www.greatmason.com

FERT #B2547

Connecticut Shoreline

Dominic Bosco

office: 203-245-7144 cell: 203-444-3465 dominic@GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com www.GoldStarPaintingSpecialists.com

ROOFING GNINOITl ID NOCONDITIONING C RIA l GNITAEH l GNIBMULP PLUMBING l HEATING AIR lppmm AIR GNINOITIDNOC RIA lPLUMBING GRNogeR ITogeR AEHlC lRampton G NnPLUMBING BpttM UaaRRLRl CC PCONDITIONING PLUMBING HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING no t m a eoogRloR nIo o C RR g R eeg Rampton R C Rampton ogeR CHEATING HEATING l AIR CONDITIONING Rampton C Rampton ogeR Rampton SHEATING RogeR IR EAIR RNTSCONDITIONING RO O LGGA INOO IRampton D NOOCS CRN GINNT AEES P I WEN MARTIN ARDOLINO GGIN ICONDITIONING N IC D NC IIAAPA NNlIIBBT N E PLUMBING W I NPLUMBING S TAl HEATING LogeR AT IogeR O N R llL PLUMBING HEATING GA N IPlNll AIR OAIR IDCONDITIONING NTITIO O RR IRAE lll GG NIIITTR IAA TAHHLEllH GMMS NULIN BMULP

Quality Work Since 1987

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Fully insured

C860-434-2200 Well Tanks, Water ﬁltration, Faucets, Leaking 860-526-2127 pipes, Gas piping

0022-434-068 Fully insured

218402-1P # cilCTTClic # P1-204812

2 V_70 9718 D

860-434-2200 derusni ylluF

Roofing 860-434-2200

RESTORATION,LLC

ROOFING

D817907_V2

203-453-5571 203-453-5571 Family Owned & Operated www.RogerCramptonLLC.com

Moss, Algae, Black Stains

CT lic # P1-204812

A AboveThe TheRest Rest A Roof Roof Above Fully insured

ROOFS WASHED

CT lic # P1-204812

D817907_V2

Family Owned & Lic. #613241 Insured Financing Available Family/ Fully Owned & /Operated Operated

www.ENHRestoration.com www.ENHRestoration.com

ROOFING • SIDING • GUTTERS Lic. #613241 / Fully Insured / Financing Available

Gutter Cleaning EPDM Roofing Flat Roofs

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL COVONERESTORATION.COM

Free Estimates All Work Guaranteed

Call Scott’s Gutters 203-466-0520 HIRE A VETERAN HIC #0634550

SERVICE DIRECTORY

18 • CLASSIFIEDS • HARBOR NEWS

JANUARY 8, 2026

SKYWAY

“Quality Roofing Since 1928” “Quality Roofing • Shingle RoofsSince 1928” Shingle Roofs• Leaders • Flat Roofs • Seamless Gutters Flat Roofs •••Shingle Roofs •Seamless Leaders Repairs • Skylights • Slate Repairs ••Flat Roofs •Gutters • Repairs ••Seamless • Skylights Leaders Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates SlateInsured Repairs• Licensed •Gutters Repairs ••Fully • Skylights

www.russoroofing.com Residential • Commercial • Free Estimates (203) 562-8077 • Slate www.russoroofing.com Repairs CT Reg No. 00509027 • Fully Insured • Licensed

Residential

HARRISON 562-8077 • 624-ROOF ROOFING (203)

(203) 624-ROOF

“Quality Roofing Since 1928”

Celebrating 30 yrs. of service with 15% Off All Year! New Roofs & Roof Repairs

PAYMENTS AVAILABLE!

R ’ T

••Tree TreeRemoval Removal ••60’ Truck 60’Bucket Bucket Truck StormDamage Damage ••Storm BranchPiles Piles ••Branch Firewood ••Stump Grinding AllCalls Calls Returned ••All Returned Reasonable Rates ••Reasonable Rates

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ROOFINGProfessionals

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(203)

Restoration LLC

203-234-1906 | 203-671-1368 www.skyway-roofing.com

Licensed

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Licensed & Insured Lic. #0573204

203-483-7314

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FOR LOW WINTER RATES

203-668-0833 office-203-468-9889 cell-

East Haven, CT 06512

• TREE REMOVALS • STUMP GRINDING • TREE and SHRUB PRUNING Div. of Provider Inc. NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL Our Staff are Prompt, Courteous, Professionals Richard Anderson CT Licensed Arborist # 62697

(203) 245-8733

FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

TREE SERVICES

LANDSCAPE&TREESERVICE A FULL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COMPANY

RT &

Brian Miller

Over 20 Years Experience Clinton, CT

T REE REMOVAL L.L.C Affordable and Professional Tree Services

Landscape & Lawncare Services

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Same day call back. We accept credit cards. www.rttreeremoval.com • brian@rttreeremoval.com

WATERPROOFING

SUDOKU

A+ Rated

SUDOKU

INC.

CT Reg No. 00509027

ROOFING

Fun By The Numbers

$59Service CT.SumpPumpGeeks.com Only

Basement Waterproofing Services Over 31 years experience

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860-639-7935

Schedule 12-Point Sump Pump Service

First Time Customers!

Community

in print every week & online every day at zip06.com 203-245-1877 Ext. 6130 860-701-4200

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!

Last Week’s Answers

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LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Photo courtesy of Marcia Simon

The crew wave from the bowsprit of the Royal Clipper while anchored off the coast of Italy, part of the Star Clippers line of tall ships.

Photo courtesy of Marcia Simon

A man relaxes on the beach on Shoal Bay in Anguilla. Ferry service is available from St. Martin.

Travel Tips and Trends for 2026: Small Groups and New Places Press Release from Friendly Group Travel

New destinations, longer journeys, and off-season perks are among the travel trends you can expect for 2026, which is looking like an active year for solo, train, and mindful travel, according to the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and Marcia Simon of Friendly Group Travel. “People are seeking value, escape, and something new,” says Simon, owner of Friendly Group Travel in Westbrook. Cruises continue to draw growing numbers of passengers. While many enjoy the entertainmentfilled monster ships with thousands of people onboard, more people are opting for small instead. River cruise and expedition ships carry between 50 and 600 passengers interested in more immersive cultural and nature experiences. The ability to dock in smaller ports that are less crowded provide a deeper sense of authenticity when arriving at a destination. “Small ships do less environmental harm to oceans and destinations. Climate-friendly solutions are easier to implement, including solar and wind energy while moving and shore power when docked,” says Simon. River cruise destinations now include the Columbia and Magdalena Rivers in South America, the Nile in Egypt, Mekong in Cambodia, as well as less traveled rivers in France. The Danube and Rhine, as well as America’s Mississippi and Snake

Photo courtesy of Marcia Simon

The stairway onboard the SS Maria Theresa, part of the Uniworld river cruise line, offers a comfortable sense of casual luxury.

rivers, continue to be most popular for first-time river cruisers. Expedition ships to Antarctica, Alaska, Galapagos Islands, and Greenland are accessible to anyone who has a mind for exploration. Norway’s coast, dotted with small islands and archipelagos, is becoming a bucket list trip for both the Northern Lights in winter and midnight sun in summer. Here are 10 tips and trends for travel for 2026, according to Simon:

1. For international travel, check your passport to make sure the expiration date is at least six months from your date of arrival at your destination. 2. For domestic air travel, you’ll need to bring your passport or a REAL-ID document, which most often is a qualified driver’s license. 3. The lowest prices and smallest crowds can be found offseason and shoulder season, while giving you a true feeling of

local life in a destination. 4. Puerto Rico is popular because of its weather, beaches, rain forest and nonstop flights from local airports. Because Puerto Rico is a US territory, you can visit without a passport, currency exchange or international phone plan. 5. The Caribbean islands have their own vibes. For example, Aruba and St. Martin/St. Maarten are known for great beaches and vibrant restaurant

scenes. Anguilla as well as Turks and Caicos are known for having some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world. Curacao, outside of the hurricane belt, is the new hot spot with new beachfront resorts. 6. More resorts have added accommodations for multigenerational families. A three- or fourbedroom space with en-suite bathrooms, kitchen and private pool can easily accommodate families who don’t want to eat all meals in restaurants. 7. For solo travel: Small, single groups of like-minded travelers make it easier to go solo without being totally on your own. Especially for older women, these trips are a readily available and easy way to find new travel buddies. 8. Small ships, because they have fewer cabins, sell out quickly. Plan ahead or take advantage of last-minute travel opportunities due to someone else’s cancellation. 9. For train travel, new sleeper trains are being added in Europe. Sleep in a private cabin instead of a hotel when moving between cities or countries. Amtrak offers train/hotel packages across the United States. 10. Earn and redeem loyalty points through Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Best Western and IHG, all of which are buying boutique hotels throughout the world. For more information, contact Marcia Simon at 860-399-0191 or welcome@friendlygrouptravel. com.

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Calendar for the Week of January 8, 2026

For more Life & Style stories, visit our website, www.zip06.com. To submit events for the calendar, email news@shorepublishing.com.

National Theatre Live in HD Encore: The Fifth Step: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 100 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 8

FRIDAY, JAN. 9

Sashiko Mending Workshop for Beginners: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a hands-on workshop for adults 19 years and older. Materials provided; participants may bring an item to mend. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Auditions for Annie Jr.: 1 to 3:30 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. AudiPeace Crane Folding: 1 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Tweens Writing: 4 to 5:15 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 tions are for grades 4 to 8. Free to audition but registraRte. 81. Features a program for ages 9 to 12 to write and Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features an inaugural tion is required. Hosted by the Guilford Youth & Family share their stories with others. Participants explore differ- Services (GY&FS) Family Theatre. Performances will be event that continues every Thursday to fold and complete 1,000 origami peace cranes. The purpose is to bring ent kinds of narratives, including fantasy, family stories, held at the Guilford High School Performing Arts Center essays, and research. This group is based on a workshop on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28. To register, people together and find inner peace while folding the model. A writing prompt is completed and shared at cranes. Once 1,000 cranes are reached, they will be call 203-453-8047. For info, visit guilfordyouthandfamilyeach meet-up. The shared prompt is then developed into services.org. donated to a charity of the group's choosing. No experience needed. Directions and materials provided. For info a piece to share at the next meeting. Participant sharing of written work is not mandatory. For info or to register or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Healthy Kids Today, Healthier Futures Tomorrow: The (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthliRole of Food Policy: 3 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memobrary.org. Creative Crafts with Jesse: Paper Quilling Make-up: rial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Pre2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston sented by Susan Mayne, adjunct professor at the Yale One Night in Memphis (Tribute to Sun Record Artists: School of Public Health and former director of the U.S. Post Rd., Madison. For ages 18 and over. Features a Presley, Perkins, Lewis, and Cash): 8 p.m. The Katharine Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Food Safety make-up class for missed paper quilling classes, including those to make pumpkins, a coastal scene, flower, and Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Sayand Applied Nutrition. Sponsored by Tilde Café. Free and brook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit fall tree. Materials provided. For info or to register open to all ages. For info or to register (required), visit thekate.org. (required), visit scrantonlibrary.org/events. tildecafe.org. Read to a Therapy Dog: 5 to 6 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Children in grades SATURDAY, JAN. 10 three to five can read to Libby, a trained therapy dog. Who’s Been Walking in These Woods? A Family Participants may bring a book or select one from the library. Registration required. For info or to register, email Nature Hike: 10 a.m. Falls River Preserve, Falls River Drive, Ivoryton. Meet near the parking area on Falls River Mary Wilhelm at mwillhelm@nbranfordlibraries.org. Drive. Features a one-hour hike led by local naturalist Phil Miller. No dogs. Hosted by Essex Library, Essex Land Teen Movie Series Night with Candy Potluck: 5:45 to Trust, and the Appalachian Mountain Club. For trail 7:45 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr., maps, visit essexlandtrust.org. For weather-related Westbrook. Part of a two-part movie series for teens in updates, visit facebook.com/EssexLibrary. For info or to grades 8 to 12 with a candy potluck. For info about the register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlimovie call 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org. brary.org.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting: 3 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For teens ages 13 to 18 to participate in library planning, programming, and advisory activities. Snacks provided. Registration is encouraged. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Whales, Whaling, and Whalemen: A History of 19thCentury Whaling: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by Mystic Seaport Museum. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

Concert by Alison Brown: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Harlem Wizards Come to Clinton: 7 p.m. The Morgan School, 71 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Features a fundraiser event with the Harlem Wizards. Tickets: general admission $18, reserved seating $30, courtside plus seats $50. Service fees apply. Proceeds benefit The Morgan School Class of 2026 Project Graduation to provide seniors with a fun and safe way to celebrate on graduation night. For tickets, click on the event at harlemwizards.com/schedule-tickets. For info, email morganprojectgrad26@gmail.com.

Loeb’s Weekend Wildlife: Living Dragons: 11•a.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features an animal education program about reptiles with Ranger Russ. For info or to register, call 203•453•8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Teen Cooking Class: Mini Donuts: 11 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a cooking workshop for teens focused on making mini donuts. Tasting included. Registration is encouraged. For info or to register, call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Met in HD Live: I Puritani: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 225 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Lions Club 45th Annual Senior Dinner: 5:30 p.m. Deep River Congregational Church, 1 Church St. Doors open at 5 p.m. Seniors from the Deep River and Chester area are invited to a free sit-down turkey dinner. For info or to RSVP (required) by Jan. 9, call Deep River Hardware at 860-526-2776.

SATURDAY, JAN. 10 AND SUNDAY, JAN. 11 VIBE Cabaret: Murder on the Orient Express: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, noon and 3 p.m. Daniel Hand High School, 286 Green Hill Rd., Madison. For info, visit dhhsvibe.com.

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LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Connecticut Theaters Kick Off 2026 with New Shows and Musicals By Karen Isaacs Columnist

Aisle

Hartford Stage Opens 2026: Hartford Stage is the first Connecticut theater to offer a new production in 2026. The Cottage is a take on the classic 1920s drawing room comedy set in England and inspired by Noel Coward. A woman, convinced she’s married the wrong man, telegrams that message to both her husband and her lover’s wife. They aren’t the only ones to arrive at the cottage. It runs from Friday, Jan. 16, through Sunday, Feb. 8. Tickets are available at HartfordStage.org. Concert Version: Brief Cameo Productions is presenting a concert version of the musical Side Show from Friday, Jan. 16, to Sunday, Jan. 18 at the Centerbrook Meeting House. The musical tells the story of Violet and Daisy Hilton, conjoined twins who became famous performers in the

1930s. Tickets are available at BriefCameoProductions.com. Busy Weekend at Goodspeed: The 20th Anniversary Festival of New Musicals is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 17, through Sunday, Jan. 18. It features staged readings of three new musicals, two cabaret evenings, workshop sessions, and a Q&A with the creators. Tickets are available for the entire weekend or for single events. For more information or tickets, visit Goodspeed.org. Sunday Broadway Concert Series: The Legacy Theater’s popular Sunday concert series will feature six well-known Broadway performers in solo shows. The series will feature three Tony Award nominees: Matt Doyle on Feb. 22, Beth Leavel on Aug. 16, and Norm Lewis on Oct. 25.

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

ON THE

Continued from page 20

SUNDAY, JAN. 11 Documentary Screening: Inhabitants: 1 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a screening of Inhabitants: Indigenous Perspectives on Restoring Our World and a talk by Jesse Rose and Clan Mother Shoran Waupatukuay Piper of the Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe, a Connecticut state-recognized tribe. Hosted by the Branford Land Trust. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Also performing are Patti Murin (Frozen) on March 8, Adrianna Hicks (Some Like It Hot) on Aug. 30, and Sam Gravitte (Wicked) on Oct. 18. Subscriptions are now available at LegacyTheatreCT.org. TheaterWorks Arts Award: TheatreWorks Hartford has received the Joyce C. Willis Equity in the Arts Award from the Roberts Foundation for the Arts. This competitive grant will fund a residency and development of a new play, which will be part of TheaterWorks 2026-’27 season. Paloma Nozicka, a Mexican-American writer, will develop Both, a world premiere play. Musical Spoof: If you need a laugh, Guttenberg! The Musical! tells the story of a pair of aspiring playwrights who audition their new, big, splashy musical about Gutenberg for possible investors. The two play every role, hoping for that Broadway contract. It runs at Playhouse on Park in West Hartford from Wednesday, Jan. 21, to Sunday, Feb. 8. Tickets are available at PlayhouseOnPark.org. Extra Performances: March is two months away, but ACT-CT of Ridgefield has added performances from March 11 to

requested for non-Essex Meadows residents. For info, visit essexhistory.org/events. General Putnam: 4 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St. Features a presentation about General Putnam by Kenneth Noll, a community theater performer in Storrs and professor emeritus of microbiology at the University of Connecticut. Sponsored by the Friends of the Chester Public Library. To register, contact the Chester Public Library at 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org. For info, visit chesterctlibrary.com/adultprograms. On a Winter's Night: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Story Time and Workshop on Kindness and Friendship: 2 to 3 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Road, Stony Creek. Features a special story time and hands-on activities led by local author MONDAY, JAN. 12 Sara Levine. Appropriate for all ages. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 203-488Movement and Music with More to Say: 10:45 to 8702 or visit wwml.org. 11:15 a.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Winter-themed music and movement class Opening Reception for First Impressions: 34th Annual for children ages 2 to 5. Registration is required. For info Associate Artists Show: 2 to 4 p.m. Lyme Art Association, or to register (required), call 203-488-1441. 90 Lyme St., Old Lyme. The show runs through Friday, Feb. 20. For info, call 860-434-7802 or visit lymeartassoci- Kids’ Ping-Pong Party: 5 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memoation.org. rial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features openplay ping-pong for children and teens. For info, call 203Winter Lecture Series: The Burning of New London: 245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com. 3:30 p.m. Hamilton Hall, Essex Meadows, 30 Bokum Rd. Second in the Essex Historical Society’s Winter Lecture Social Justice Book Discussion (America 250 Event): Series on the American Revolution. Features a talk by Eric 6:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Lehman, author of Homegrown Terror: Benedict Arnold Old Saybrook. Book: Espionage and Enslavement in the and the Burning of New London. Doors open at 3 p.m. Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend and ElizaSeating is first-come, first-served. Registration is beth by Claire Bellerjeau and Tiffany Yecke Brooks.

March 15 for its production of Frozen. For more information, visit ActOfCT.org. NYC Notes: Four shows closed before the New Year started. Two of them, the star-studded revivals of Art and Waiting for Godot, were hits; the other two, the play Little Bear Ridge and the musical Queen of Versailles, were financial failures although the play received positive reviews. January is a great time to catch a Broadway play or musical. With tourists gone and the holidays over, many shows will have discount tickets available. TKTS is a reliable source for same-day discount tickets and Today’s Tix is another source. Both have apps that will give you information on which shows are offering discounts and other details. Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident. To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Copies of the book will be available for checkout at the library. Virtual participation via Zoom is an option. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Just Desserts Book Club: 7 p.m. Ivoryton Library, Ivoryton. Book: The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow. No registration required. Limited number of physical books at the library. For info, call 860-767-1252 or email staff@ivorytonlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 13 Met in HD Encore: I Puritani: 10 a.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 210 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Gardening with Mosses: Noon to 2 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Features a talk on moss ecology, horticulture, and ideas on how moss can be utilized in the garden. Presented by Christine Cook, owner of Mossaics Ecological Landscape Design. Part of the Leete’s Island Garden Club monthly meeting. Guests are welcome. For info or to register, contact 203-453-0780 or kayclaiborn@comcast.net.

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JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Comic Crew: Bad Guys: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 8 to 12. Features games, contests, The Creative and Compassionate Art of Seeing Others crafts, or activities based on the series. For info or to regDeeply with David Brooks: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: ister (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit essexliHow to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply. brary.org. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to Your Heart and You: Gender-Specific Symptoms of register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. Heart Attacks: 4 to 5 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features a The Creative and Compassionate Art of Seeing Others presentation by James Murray Jr. examining how heart Deeply with David Brooks: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: attack symptoms can differ by gender and why early How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply. recognition is critical. For info or to register (required), Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org. the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit Acoustic Artists Storyteller Series: Terri LaChance: libraryc.org/essexlib. 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features stories and songs paired with picArt with Kristin: Cardinals and Birch Tree Collage: tures and visuals. For participants of all ages. For info or 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Bos- to register, visit actonlibrary.org/events. ton Post Rd., Madison. Led by local artist and educator Kristin Cafferty. For children ages 5 to 8. For info or to Author Talk: Lauren LaRusso: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Bookregister (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlisellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Beyond Infibrary.org. delity: How to Turn the End of Your Relationship into the Beginning of Your Life. For info or to register (required), Wacky Wildlife: Moose: 5:30 to 6 p.m. Atwater Memorial call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Participants learn about moose and make a moose craft. Recommended for ages 6 to 11. For info or to register THURSDAY, JAN. 15 (required), call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranBook Club: Noon to 2 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, ford.librarycalendar.com. 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Book: The Berry Pickers: A Novel by Amanda Peters. For info or to register, call 203LEGO Stem Club: 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com. 301 Rte. 81. For grade 1 to 4. Project for the session is Continued from page 21

foosball. Participants will use the STEM steps to solve a problem, plan and create a design, and then test their project. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. The Art of 18th-Century Chocolate Making (America 250 Event): 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features historical chocolatemaking techniques and authentic methods from the 1700s. Attendees will enjoy samples of the chocolate products made on-site. Presented by Robert Lecce of Pewter Pot Chocolates. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Pickin’ Party: 6 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 14 Designing with Containers: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Evergreen Woods, 88 Notch Hill Rd., North Branford. Hosted by the Guilford Garden Club. Presented by Rene Marsh, founder and owner of A Simpler Place in Monroe where she is a garden designer, horticulturist, and flower farmer. Free and open to the public. For info, visit guilfordgardenclub.org/events.

STEM Challenge: Build a Bridge: 4 to 4:45 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a hands-on engineering activity for children in K to grade 4. For info or to register (required), call 203-4881441. Teddy Bear Clinic: 5 to 6 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Children ages 2 to 10 bring stuffed animals for a pretend medical check-up. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com. Shoreline Opera Club Discussion of the Met in HD Live Broadcast: I Puritani: 5:30 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Open to all. For info, email ShorelineOperaClub@gmail.com. American Girl Doll Club: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children in grades 1 through 4. Features a story or discussion, activities, and a craft from a different history time period. Dolls don’t have to be American Girl. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Virtual Art Talk: Uncovering a Masterpiece: 6:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Features curator Mallory Mortillaro discussing the authentication of an Auguste Rodin sculpture. Registration is required. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. Shoreline Sailing Club Event: 7 p.m. Clark Memorial Field, 210 Elm St., Old Saybrook. For active singles 35 and over. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Cost: free for members and first-time guests, $10 for others. BYOB. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com. In Public: 50 years of Candid Street Photography with George Schaub: 7 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. For info, email schaubphoto@gmail.com. Concert by Albert Lee: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 16 Friday Night “Oldie” Film: 7 to 9 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Not rated. Doors open at 6:50 p.m. Light refreshments provided by the Friends of the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library. For info, including the name of the movie, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org. Miss Hysteria: 7:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org. Concert by Kashmir (Tribute Led Zeppelin): 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Cabaret Performance by Rona Siddiqui: 10 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 17 Saturday Sleuths Book Club: 10 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: She’s Not Sorry by Mary Kubica. Snacks will be provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Winter Family Painting Workshop: 10 a.m. to noon. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For families with children ages 6 to 12. Led by Valley Regional High School art teacher Jessica Stedman. For info or to register Art Talk with Curator Mallory Mortillaro: The Discovery of a Masterpiece: 6:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Sponsored (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit essexlibrary.org. by the Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a talk on how Mortillaro identified and authenticated an Auguste Rodin sculpture of Napoleon Bonaparte hiding in plain sight in New Jersey. Second in a two-part series, “Exciting Discoveries in Art History.” Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or See page 24 visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org.

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Photo by George Schaub

In the waning days of the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans (better known as the World’s Fair), the grounds were a bit of a shambles and the crowds were very thin. Buskers set up their high-wire act in a fenced-in corner off the midway. A clown obliged for the photo.

Photo by George Schaub

This billboard with a giant eye sat outside the main entrance to the Photokina trade fair in Germany, 2010. The photographer waited for something to happen, and soon enough a group of gentlemen in suits lined up in front of it.

On the day this photo was shot, the light was brilliant and a walker cast a shadow that joined the shadows of architecture in Sevilla, 2023.

Guilford Library Hosts In Public: A Candid Street Photography Press Release from George Schaub

Guilford resident George Schaub presents In Public, an exhibit that joins photographic imagery with commentary from 50 years of candid street photography. The show takes place on Thursday, Jan. 15, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Guilford Free Library, 67 Park Street. The presentation is intended to encourage both phone and digital camera users to explore the potential of a visual study of human nature and the human experience through their images. Aside from being a wonderful travel journal, the images can become even more valued as an inward-looking examination that joins the photographer to the cast of characters who share life’s stage. Schaub explains, “Having been raised during the time when Life, Look, and the New York Daily News—which billed itself as the ‘Picture Newspaper’—were in wide cirPhoto by George Schaub culation, I became aware of the work of Eisenstadt, Gene A sweeper in Bangkok (1982) resting in an alcove with a Smith, and Russell Lee, and later the work of the Bresgrace and elegance struck the photographer's eye. son, Winogrand, WeeGee, and other ‘street’ photographers. He continues, “When I eventually got my hands on a photographs of people and their activities, both candid camera, and later, through my work that allowed me to and ‘permission’ posed.” travel more extensively, I gravitated towards making Schaub adds, “A year or three in the wedding and PR

photo game also honed my skills of interacting with strangers and made me much less shy about taking their photos. While there are rules and lines that should not be crossed, I always took the attitude that with a nod and a wink, it’s OK to take the picture.” b

About George Schaub Guilford resident George Schaub taught and lectured at workshops and universities in the United States and abroad. He served as an adjunct professor in the photography department at the New School/Parsons School of Design in New York City for 20 years and authored over 20 books on photography. He served as editor and editorial director at numerous enthusiast and professional photographic magazines, including Shutterbug, Popular Photography, and Studio Photography & Design. His images have been published in a wide range of publications, including The Sunday New York Times, Travel & Leisure, Travel Holiday, New Mexico Magazine, Camera Arts, and Lens Magazine. The selection of work in this program is from an anthology entitled In Public: George Schaub 1970-2020, published by Blurb Press (www.blurb.com).

24 Continued from page 22 Weaving Mug Rugs Workshop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Participants will complete four tabby patterns inspired by classic fabric arts: a ninepatch quilt block, plaid, gingham, and bordered square. Cost: $37.80 for members, $42 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $12 is payable with the tuition. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-453-5947. Stop Motion Animation Workshop: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. Drop-ins welcome by space is limited. Participants may stay longer to finish their projects. For info or to register, contact 860-5260018 or ChesterKidLib@gmail.com.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING Concert by the Amish Outlaws: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Ser20th Anniversary Festival Concert: 9:30 p.m. The Good- vice, and Belonging. Hosted by the Chester Public Library speed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Fes- through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit tival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. 8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 18

Inaugural Consignment Art Sale: Noon to 4 p.m. Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek (CBSRZ), 55 East Kings Hwy., Chester. Features original prints, drawings, and paintings from area collections. Works by the followFrames in Film Encore: Hopper: An American Love Story: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, ing artists will be for sale: Irving Amen, Hella Bailin, Nohra Barros, James Britton, William Hogarth 1835 reprint, John 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big Massimino, Josef Presser, Lynn Shaler, and many more. A screen, in collaboration with the Florence Griswold portion of the proceeds benefits CBSRZ. To RSVP, email Museum. Running time: 90 minutes. For info or tickets, office@cbsrz.org. For info, email Pat Sher at CBSRZcall 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. gallery@gmail.com. Festival Seminars: 1 to 4:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

Foolproof: 1 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

Creative Crafts with Jesse: Birthday Cards: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Participants create three birthday cards using stamping, embossing, and die-cut techniques. Registration required. For info or to register, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Sunday Afternoon Concert: The Kenn Morr Band: 2 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features music by Kenn Morr with bandmates Tom Hagymasi (violin), Pat Ryan (bass), and Tido “T-Bone” Holtkamp (drums). Free and open to all. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Teams work on identical puzzles within a set time; prizes awarded to the first three teams to finish. Team size: two to four participants. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Winter Lecture Series: The Woman Who Printed the Declaration: 3:30 p.m. Hamilton Hall, Essex Meadows, 30 Bokum Rd. Concluding program in the Essex Historical Society’s Winter Lecture Series on the American Revolution. Features a talk by Dr. Emily Sneff, author of the forthcoming When the Declaration of Independence was News. Doors open at 3 p.m. Seating is first-come, firstserved. Registration is requested for non-Essex Meadows residents. For info, visit essexhistory.org/events.

A Tribute to Prince: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by Purple Luscious Love. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a buffet dinner. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will be seated at tables with other guests. For info or reservations, call 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events. Festival Dinner at Gelston House: 5:30 p.m. Gelston House, 8 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-8738668 or visit goodspeed.org. Winter Dance Party: 7 to 10 p.m. Time to Dance Ballroom Dance Studio, 45 NE Industrial Rd., Branford. Admission: $20, includes a group lesson from 7 to 7:30 led by Karen Pfrommer. For info, email info@timetodanceballroom.com. F Word: 7:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 20

Meet the Writers Q&A: 3:30 p.m. The Goodspeed, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Part of Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. For info or tickets, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

MONDAY, JAN. 19 41st Annual MLK Breakfast: 8:30 a.m. Branford High School (BHS), 185 E. Main St. Features a presentation by civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale, “Now Is the Time to Take a Stand,” with music by the BHS Music Makers. Hosted by the MLK Heritage Foundation and Branford High School. Tickets: $20 general admission, $5 for students. Includes full breakfast. Proceeds benefit scholarships for BHS students who embody the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For info or tickets, visit mlkheritage.org.

Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-7671560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib. Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries. Chester Blood Pressure Clinic: 2 to 3 p.m. Chester Town Hall community room, 203 Middlesex Ave. Free for Chester seniors and community members. For info, contact Public Health Nurse Sherry Carlson at 860-661-3300 or Scarlson@crahd.net. Sip and Paint Polar Bears: 2 to 3 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For grades 2 to 4. Participants will follow step-by-step directions to paint a polar bear, learn new art techniques, and sip on healthy juice boxes (provided). Space and supplies are limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. Facts and Fibs Book Group: 3:30 p.m. Ivoryton Library, Ivoryton. Hosted by Mary Ann Pleva and Ginny Bliss. Book: Finding Me by Viola Davis. For info or to join, call 860-767-1252 or email staff@ivorytonlibrary.org. Pajama Story Time: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For families with children of all ages. For info or to sign up for a spot, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. Pickin’ Party: 6 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org. Author Event: Madeleine Dunnigan in Conversation with Marisa Helff: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Jean. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

See page 25

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

41st Annual MLK Day Breakfast Features Speaker, Music, and More Press Release from the MLK Heritage Foundation

Renowned civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale will be the featured speaker at the 41st annual MLK Day Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 19, at Branford High School, 185 East Main Street. Sponsored by the MLK Heritage Foundation and Branford Public Schools, the breakfast has become an annual tradition, bringing together hundreds of community members for an incredible morning of food, music, and inspiration. As a longtime public defender and president of the Public Justice Foundation, Tisdale has dedicated his life to standing up to injustice. A partner at Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder, he has fought in the courts against bias, discrimination, and oppression, and has served on the boards of multiple civic organizations that aid the less fortunate, including the Fairfield County Community Foundation and the Bridgeport Public Education Fund. He is also a recipient of the NAACP Distinguished Service Award. Tisdale’s speech at the 2026 MLK Breakfast is entitled “Now is the Time to Take a Stand” and will address the need to step forward and not turn away in the face of increasing uncertainty. “Now is the time to make real the promise of democracy and transform our national elegy into a creative psalm of brotherhood,” Tisdale said. “Now is the time to lift our national policy from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of human dignity.” The MLK Day Breakfast promises to be an evocative morning.The event features a full breakfast prepared by the BHS Culinary Arts program and Branford Rotary and performances by the award-winning Branford High School Music Makers, as well as music by XX, YY, ZZ. Tickets cost $20 for general admission or $5 for students. “There is nothing in Branford quite like the MLK Breakfast,” said Mary FitzPerry, president of the MLK Heritage Foundation. “To see more than 250 people, from all ages and backgrounds, get together and genuinely talk to each other is a marvelous thing.” “Branford Public Schools is honored to partner with the MLK Heritage Foundation for this year’s annual breakfast,” said

Continued from page 24 Parenting in the Smartphone Years: 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Parents and guardians will learn how to reset expectations with the Family Tech Agreement, spot red flags, lead the five must-have safety conversations, and partner with their child for healthier tech use. Part of the Family Tech Roadmap series. Hosted by the Center for Online Safety. For info or to register (required), visit centerforonlinesafety.com/haddam.

25 Greater Old Saybrook Chamber (GOSC) 2025 Annual Awards Night: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features a silent auction, a wine pull, live music, awards honoring community standouts, and more. Tickets: $45. For info or tickets, visit goschamber.com.

Metropolitan Opera Talk: The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay: 6•p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features a lecture on the opera adaptation of the novel. For info or to register, call Popcorn and PJs: Virtual Family Story 203•453•8282 or visit guilfordfreeliTime: 7 p.m. Online event. Features author brary.org. Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrator Jerry Jordan reading Unstoppable John, discussing Author Event: David Borges: 6:30 p.m. their creative process, answering quesRJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., tions, and leading a brief drawing activity. Madison. Book: Hurley's Heroes. For info or Cost: $10 for the secure link to the live to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or event; $30 for the full package, which visit rjjulia.com. includes the link, a signed copy of the book, popcorn, crayons, sketch pad, and Community Storyteller and Poetry additional materials shipped to the proSlam: 6:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 vided address. Presented by Read to Grow Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free in Branford. For info or to register, call and open to all. For info or to register, call 203-488-6800 or visit readtogrow.org. 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org/events.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21

Photo courtesy of Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder PC

The 41st annual MLK Day Breakfast will feature civil rights attorney Preston Tisdale.

Superintendent Chris Tranberg. “This event brings out the very best in our community, students, educators, and residents coming together to celebrate the enduring legacy of Dr. King.” Begun in 1985 at the small AME Zion Church in Branford, the breakfast has grown to become an important annual event on the holiday calendar, attracting politicians and dignitaries from across the state. Past speakers include Pulitzer Prizewinning author Jeffrey Stewart; Jane Elliott, creator of the Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes study; Vanessa Roberts, former U.S. attorney for the District of Connecticut; and author and criminal justice advocate Chris Wilson. The breakfast also spawned the MLK Heritage Foundation, which now holds events throughout the year, including the groundbreaking Meals for the Mind, bimonthly evenings where 10 strangers from different backgrounds share a meal and simply get to know each other. For more information visit MLK Heritage.org.

Did a Connecticut Woman Kill Jack the Ripper?: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Atwater Memorial Shoreline Village Tea and Talk: 2 p.m. Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Parthenon Diner, 374 E. Main St., Branford. Features a presentation examining a hisFeatures a conversation with members of torical theory connecting a Connecticut Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to woman to the Jack the Ripper case. Virtual register, contact 203-747-5939 or participation by Zoom is an option. For info@ShorelineVillageCT.org. info or to register (required), visit northbranfordlibraries.org. Kate Classic Film: Adam's Rib: 2 and 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. THURSDAY, JAN. 22 For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Junior Librarians: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a new four-session Inside the World of Hummingbirds: program for ages 8 to 12 offering a 4 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. behind-the-scenes look at library operaFeatures a program on hummingbird tions with the children’s and teen Librarispecies, behaviors, adaptations, and con- ans. Participants will explore organizing servation concerns. Presented by Joe Att- materials, designing displays, planning water, conservation and education coorprograms, and more. Free. Commitment dinator for the Connecticut Audubon to all four sessions and celebration is Society’s Roger Tory Peterson (RTP) Estuexpected. For info or to register ary Center. Free and open to all. Registra- (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit tion required. For info or to register, call youressexlibrary.org. 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Colorful Paper Weaving: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For Migrate, Hibernate, and Adapt: 4 p.m. grades 1 to 3. Space and supplies are limEssex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a ited. For info or to register (required), call STEAM program for ages 5 to 10 led by 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthliSteward Outdoor Day School, exploring brary.org. how animals adapt to winter. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org. See page 26

26 Continued from page 25 Connecticut River Ferries: Past, Present, and Future with Captain Paul Costello: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a talk on the histories of the ChesterHadlyme and the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury ferries, the challenges both ferries faced, the reason they survived, the improvements made to them over the decades, and the future of the two remaining ferries. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860767-1560 or visit the events calendar link at youressexlibrary.org. Drive-in Movie Night: 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Decorate a file box with paper plates for wheels and bring it to the library for a “drive-in” movie. Participants can sit in the “car” (or on the floor) in the children’s room for the film showing. Popcorn served. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING Get Grounded for the New Year: EFT Tapping and Boundaries Workshop: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features a workshop led by energy practitioner Jess Leone introducing EFT tapping techniques focused on stress reduction and boundary setting. For info or to register (required), visit northbranfordlibraries.org.

Kids Create: Axolotl Keychains: 10:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Kids ages 6 to 12 will design and assemble beaded axolotl keychains using colorful pony beads. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Fourth Annual Jigsaw Puzzle Competition: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Teams (maximum four members) race to complete a 500-piece puzzle. The winning team receives a gift card to a local business. Free and open to all. Limited seating. Sponsored by the Friends of the Acton National Theatre Live in HD Encore: Life of Pi: 7 p.m. Library. For info or to register (required), call 860-395The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., 3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 150 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 Turkish Coffee Tasting: 2 to 4 p.m. James Blackstone or visit thekate.org. Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Hosted by Peace Islands CT. Features presentations, demonstraAn Evening with Edgar Allan Poe: 7•p.m. Guilford Free tions, activities, and Q&A exploring Turkish coffee culLibrary, 67 Park St. Features a dramatic performance cele- ture. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library. brating the works of Poe. For info or to register, call Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 203•453•8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Friday Movie Matinee: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Popcorn and soda provided. Registration preferred. For info, including the movie title, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Concert by Suzanne O Davis: Tapestry: the Carole King Songbook: 3 and 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

A Tribute to The Eagles: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by The Eagles Experience. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a Concert by Ellis Paul: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cul- buffet dinner. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will tural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or be seated at tables with other guests. For info or reservatickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. tions, call 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events.

SATURDAY, JAN. 24 Winter in Broomstick Ledges: 8:30 a.m. Broomstick Ledges, Guilford. Meet at the Bluff Head parking lot on Route 77. Features a 3.5-mile hike with a steep section and some rocky portions. Hosted by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust (GLCT). Led by GLCT Director Sam Mandel. Precipitation may cancel. For info or weatherrelated updates, text 347-969-4178. Practice SAT Exam: 9 a.m. to noon. Virtual event. Features a full-length practice SAT hosted by the library in partnership with C2 Education. For info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. YMA Annex, 554 Woodward Ave., New Haven. Sponsored by the New Haven Philatelic Society. For info, visit nhps1914.com.

Lava Lamp Making Workshop: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Volunteer Fair: 10 a.m. to noon. James Blackstone Rd., Stony Creek. Features a hands-on workshop for chilMemorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Representatives from local nonprofits provide information on community dren exploring solubility and density while creating a work and volunteer opportunities. Free. For info, call 203- lava lamp to take home. Led by STEAM Dreamers LLC. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-8702 or 488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org. visit wwml.org.

Author Event: Jen Hatmaker: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Awake: A Memoir. For info or to register (required), call 203-2453959 or visit rjjulia.com.

FRIDAY, JAN. 23

SUNDAY, JAN. 25

Put the Phone Away, Let the Marbles Play: 10 to 11 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features a story with Mrs. Fig while adult caregivers and parents join a discussion with experts from the Shoreline Therapy Center on the topic, "Unplugging our Kids Without Losing Ourselves." Adults get practical tips, tricks, and strategies to help their family step away from screens, reclaim their time, and break the device habit. Co-sponsored by the Haddam-Killingworth Youth & Family Services, HK Unplugged, Shoreline Therapy Center, and the Killingworth Library. For info or to register (required), call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Essex Winter Series (EWS): Timeless Bonds and New Horizons: 3 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Features the inaugural Mihae Lee legacy concert with new Artistic Director Tara Helen O’Connor joined by Ani Kavafian, violin; Peter Wiley, cello; and Shai Wosner, piano. Part of the EWS 2026 Season, in the celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. Tickets: $45, general admission; $5, students through college. For info or tickets, call 860272-4572 or visit essexwinterseries.com. Who Were the Hammonassetts? The Interrelationship of Indigenous Communities at the Time of English Colonization: 4 p.m. Hubley Hall, First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln. Presented by Jim Powers. Sponsored by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Part of the 2026 Frederick Lee Lectures series. Admission: $5 suggested fee, free to MHS members. For info, call 203-245-4567 or office@madisonhistory.org. Concert by The Meadow Brothers and Belle of the Fall: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Tickets: $29. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

MONDAY, JAN. 26 Songs and Stories with Patti Smith: 7 p.m. The Lyman Center at SCSU, 501 Crescent St., New Haven. Book: Bread of Angels. Cost: $55, includes admission for one attendee and a copy of the book; $20, admission for one student. Sponsored by R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), call 203-2453959 or visit rjjulia.com.

TUESDAY, JAN. 27 AND WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 Barry and Bette: The Music of Bette Midler and Barry Manilow: 7:30 p.m. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, 297 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Madison Lyric Stage with tenor Marc Deaton in a tribute concert featuring songs such as Mandy, I Write the Songs, Wind Beneath My Wings, and The Rose. Includes guest artists. Part of the Summer Festival 2026 festival. Duration: Two hours with one intermission. Suitable for all audiences. For info and tickets, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org. See page 28

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Lyme Art Association Welcomes 2026 With Triple Shows Press Release from the Lyme Art Association

The Lyme Art Association (LAA) rings in the new year with First Impressions, its annual associate artists show, and Congratulations, a lovely show that exhibits the works of LAA’s newest elected artists. Running concurrently is a new show called The Artists Garden, which focuses on gardens as artistic inspirations. All three shows run from Friday, Jan. 9, through Friday, Feb. 20. Opening reception for all shows is Sunday, Jan. 11, from 2 to 4 p.m. First Impressions for 2026 is the LAA’s 34th annual associate artists show and recognizes the artistic work of its associate artist members. This annual exhibition showcases the varied approaches of representational artmaking created by LAA’s talented membership. Congratulations is an annual show that welcomes LAA’s newest elected artists, who are the cream of the crop and walk in the representational artist tradition of LAA’s founders. LAA elected artists are elected by their peers after a rigorous selection and evaluation process. This year’s new elected artists are Betsy Barry, Mike Laiuppa, Liane Philpotts, and Five Blessings from the Gasp, oil, by Mike Laiuppa Jeanne Carol Potter. The Artists Garden is a new show at the LAA and is inspired by the beauty of gardens. These cultivated spaces where nature and creativity intertwine have long been a source of inspiration and creativity. From lush florals to quiet corners, cultivated plots to imagined landscapes, this exhibition reflects on how artists see and interpret the garden as a place of growth, reflection, and renewal. The show is a celebration of the beauty, symbolism, and personal meaning of gardens.

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Tabasco, colored pencil, by Betsy Barry

About the Lyme Art Association Founded in 1914 by the American impressionists, the Lyme Art Association continues the tradition of exhibiting and selling representational artwork by its members and invited artists, as well as offering art instruction, lectures, and other public programs to the community. The Lyme Art Association is located at 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, in a building designed by architect Charles Adams Platt. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information, visit www.lymeartassociation.org.

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Eight Blue Ball Jars, watercolor, by Jeanne Carol Potter

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Glass Ceiling Pioneer, oil, by Liane Philpotts

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING Author Event: Kat Ashmore in Conversation with Diane Morrisey: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church, 26 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Book: Big Bites: Time to Eat!. Ticket options available. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Introduction to Sourdough: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Covers sourdough starter care, fermentation and proofing basics, dough shaping, and baking techniques. For info or to register (required), call 860-7671560 or visit essexlibrary.org.

Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: The God of the Woods: A Novel. Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.

Author Event: Harper Ross in Conversation with Kristan Higgins: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: The Unwritten Rules of Magic. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: The God of the Woods: A Novel. Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with History Comes Alive: The History of Nintendo: 5 p.m. the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Interactive learning (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit event about Nintendo’s evolution for children. For info or libraryc.org/essexlib. to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore: 7 p.m.

Willoughby Book Talk: 7 to 8 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Book: When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén, translated from the Swedish by Alice Menzies. Held in the Keyes Gallery. For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

Continued from page 26

TUESDAY, JAN. 27 History of Nintendo Playable Museum: 3:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Retro Nintendo consoles and history on display. For info or to register, call 203453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. Math Mania: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For elementary-aged children. Features games and activities to reinforce math skills. Focus for the session is addition. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Concert by Satisfaction (Tribute to The Rolling Online event. Book: The God of the Woods: A Novel. Stones): 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Kids' Movie Showing: 5 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnCenter, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call Library, 801 Boston Post Road, Madison. Features a ership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. screening of a movie (rated PG) with snacks and popto register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries. corn. Registration is required. For info on the movie or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranConcert by Lee DeWyze: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine HepFRIDAY, JAN. 30 ton.librarycalendar.com. burn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For An Evening with Author and Film Director John info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Sayles: 6 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features a Pickin’ Party: 6 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 presentation on Sayles’s forthcoming historical novel Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues Crucible. Copies of the book will be available for purchase musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, courtesy of Breakwater Books. Free and open to all. Regfree for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfounda- THURSDAY, JAN. 29 Story and Craft: Llama Llama Mess, Mess, Mess: 10 to istration required. For info or to register, call 203-453tion.org. 10:45 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston 8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org. The Anatomy of Grit: A Journey From Survival to Pur- Post Rd., Madison. Features a reading of Llama Llama Mess, Mess, Mess (Anna Dewdney) followed by a craft; for Knitting With Knightley: 6 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, pose: 6 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a talk by Justin Brownell. ages 2 and up. Registration is required. For info or to reg- 4 Liberty St. Doors open at 6 p.m.; movie begins at ister (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scran6:30 p.m. Features a potluck-style gathering, so attenHosted by the Branford Land Trust. Free. For info or to ton.librarycalendar.com. dees may bring an entrée, appetizer, or dessert to share. register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit Includes a free showing of Pride and Prejudice. Attendees events.blackstonelibrary.org. SEL-Based Theater Workshop with Wilder Moon Colmay bring knitting or other fiber crafts. Free. For info or lective: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. to register (required), visit chester.recdesk.com. Social-emotional learning workshop for ages 9 to 12. For WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 info or to register, call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreel- Antique Map Collecting 101: Foxing, Soiling, and Hollywood Gems: The Marrying Kind: 1 p.m. The ibrary.org. Worm Holes: 6 to 7 pm. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Presented by Brian Tims of the Connecticut Map Society. Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit Migrate, Hibernate, and Adapt: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or thekate.org. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children ages 5 to visit killingworthlibrary.org. 10. Features a hands-on STEAM experience that blends National Lego Day: 4 to 5 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial science, nature, and art. Presented by the Steward OutConcert by Jesse Cook: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features Lego free door Day School. Space is limited. For info or to register Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info play and theme builds, with stop-motion projects using (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlior tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. the Lego Play app. Registration is required. For info or to brary.org. register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com. Whitney Literary Society Inaugural Event: 5:30 p.m. Kindergarten Kickback with Legos and Cars: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Bring your favorite matchbox racers or try the cars provided by the library. Dinner will be served. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org/events.

New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Features an informal, bimonthly book discussion on U.S. history with a focus on New Haven, which was once the center of governance, education, trade, and culture in Connecticut. Includes a discussion of a book along with a viewing of materials in the New Haven Museum collection, a visit from an author, or a guided tour of a related exhibit. Book: The Case of the Piglet's Paternity: Trials from the New Haven Colony, 1619-1963 by Jon C. Blue. Snow date: Thursday, Feb. 5. Visitors may register to read and discuss any or all of the books. Free and open to all. For info or to register, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 31

Nuno Felting-a-Scarf Workshop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Participants will use fine merino and a laminated felting technique to create a unique accessory. Cost: $63 for members, $70 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $25 is payable with the tuition. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203453-5947.

See page 29

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Brief Cameo Productions Announces Casting For Side Show: In Concert Press release from Brief Cameo Productions

Brief Cameo Productions (BCP) announces the complete casting for its 2026 production, Side Show: In Concert. The concert is scheduled to perform Friday, Jan. 16, and Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. Performances of Side Show will take place at The Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main Street, Centerbrook. Interested patrons can become a sponsor of the production by visiting www.briefcameoproductions.com. Sponsorship packages include reserved seated ticketing and other perks. General admission tickets are $30 and are on sale now, also via the company’s website. Originally opening on Broadway in 1997, Side Show tells the story of Violet and Daisy Hilton, conjoined twins who became famous performers in the 1930s. The show has the book and lyrics by Bill Russell and the music by Henry Krieger. A heavily revised production played Broadway in 2014, with additional material by Bill Condon. Brief Cameo will be presenting the 2014 version of the script. Samanta Rae Bass (BCP’s The Drowsy Chaperone) will portray Daisy Hilton, with Violet Hilton being performed by Johanna Regan Milani (Drowsy Chaperone). The Side Show cast will also feature several

Chaperone), and Galen Donovan (Drowsy Chaperone) as members of the ensemble. Joining the company for the first time are Tullio Milani as Terry Connor; Miles Hanna as Jake; and Kathryn Dooley, Elizabeth Stassen, Nathan Szymanski, and Sydney Yargeu in the ensemble. The Side Show production team features Co-Directors Jim Clark (BCP cofounder and producer) and Alan Piotrowicz (BCP associate producer), with Piotrowicz also contributing production design, Musical Director Jill Brunelle (BCP resident musical director), costume designer Kathleen Santomasso, and Stage Manager Holly Price. “From day one, Alan and I have been trying to figure out when the right time to produce Side Show would be,” said Clark, Side Show: In Concert co-director along with Piotrowicz. “It always hinged on finding performers to play Violet and Daisy Hilton, the conjoined twins at the center of the musical. Once Samantha Rae Bass and Johanna Regan Milani joined our company last year for Drowsy Chaperone, Photo courtesy of Brief Cameo Productions Photo courtesy of Brief Cameo Productions we knew we had found our Hilton sisters. Samanta Rae Bass Johanna Regan Milani I’m also incredibly proud of the ensemble we’ve assembled, made up of returning returning Brief Cameo Productions cast Drowsy Chaperone) as Sir, Benjamin performers and exciting new additions to members: Ethan Smith (Drowsy Chaper- Wambeke (Drowsy) as Houdini, as well as the Brief Cameo family.” Side Show is presented through special one) as Buddy Foster, Bryan Songy (Rag- Nathan Russo (Ragtime, Sunday in the time, Sunday in the Park with George, Park with George, Master Class, Drowsy arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

Soap Making with Shell & Bee: 1 p.m. Chester Public Concert by Chrome Horse (Tribute to Bob Dylan): Library, 21 W. Main St. Space is limited. For info or to reg- 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Met in HD Encore: The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier ister, contact 860-526-0018 or ChesterKidLib@gmail.com. Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510& Clay: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Cen0453 or visit thekate.org. ter, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 192 minutes. For info or tickets, SUNDAY, FEB. 1 call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. Hike on Westwoods West: 10 a.m. Westwoods, Guilford. MONDAY, FEB. 2 Meet at the southern Moose Hill Road entrance, across Author Event: Stephen Fishbach: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Concert by EWF (Tribute Earth, Wind & Fire): 8 p.m. from Landon’s Way. Features a 1.5-hour exploration of Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Escape!. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Westwoods, including a new acquisition by the Guilford For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or Land Conservation Trust (GLCT) off Moose Hill Road. The visit rjjulia.com. visit thekate.org. hike includes hemlocks, small waterfalls, caves, roots, rocks, mud, and a few steep climbs. Hosted by the GLCT. Saturday Cinema: 2 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Sponsored by the Friends Led by GLCT Director David Grigsby and Secretary Sarah TUESDAY, FEB. 3 of the Blackstone Library. Free. For info about the movie Williams. Heavy rain cancels. For info, call 203-915-0663. Author Event: Gayle Feldman in Conversation with or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit Roxanne Coady: 6:30 p.m. RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 BosEssex Ed Parade (Groundhog Parade): 2 p.m. Parade events.blackstonelibrary.org. ton Post Rd., Madison. Book: Nothing Random: Bennett kicks off at the Essex Boat Works, 9 Ferry St. In celebraCerf and the Publishing House He Built. For info or to regisA Tribute to Bon Jovi: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, tion of Groundhog Day, a community organization ter (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com. dresses Essex Ed, a 12-foot paper-mâché version of a 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by 1 Wild groundhog. Essex Ed’s costume recognizes a person or Night. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a buffet dinner. special occasion. Sponsored by the Essex Board of Trade. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will be seated at Parade takes place rain, snow, or shine. For info, visit tables with other guests. For info or reservations, call essexct.com/events. 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events. Continued from page 28

See page 30

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Pronounced Ah-Beetz Exhibit Focuses on Flavor and Fun video footage adapted from the documentary, and photographs. The exhibit’s title, “Pronounced Ah-Beetz,” comes from the way many people mispronounce the word apizza, which originally grew out of the Italian “la pizza.” The exhibit will remain on view through October 2027.

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

If you love the crust, the crunch, and the char of New Haven pizza, you won’t want to miss the behind the scenes curator’s tour of the Pronounced AhBeetz exhibit with co-curator Jason Bischoff-Wurstle, at the New Haven Museum, on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at 6 p.m. The tour is free with regular museum admission. From Frank Pepe’s original hat to celebrity-signed pizza boxes (including Gwyneth Paltrow and Yogi Berra), the collection of memorabilia relating to New Haven’s renowned pie will fascinate guests. Pronounced AhBeetz shows the fun, flavor, and history of Elm City pizza, including its origin as an affordable means of feeding workers in the fields of Italy, and how it became the food of the poor in the U.S. The Italian migration to New Haven gave way to Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana, which gave birth to Sally’s Apizza. A mile away, Tony’s Apizza became Modern. Pronounced Ah-Beetz is coContinued from page 29

About the New Haven Museum

Guests view the pizza-themed exhibit at the New Haven Museum.

curated by Bischoff-Wurstle, award-winning curator of the 2020 exhibit FACTORY and host of the New Haven Museum You-

Tube series Micro-Histories, and Gorman Bechard, Dean Falcone, and Colin M. Caplan, the producing team behind the documen-

The New Haven Museum has been collecting, preserving and interpreting the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its inception as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862. Located in downtown New Haven at 114 Whitney Avenue, the museum brings more than 375 years of New Haven history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs, and outreach. As a Blue Star Museum, the New Haven Photo by Defining Studios Museum offers the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve, free tary, Pizza: A Love Story. The admission all year. For more exhibit includes first-hand oral information, call 203-562-4183 or histories and apizza-related arti- visit newhavenmuseum.org. facts from personal collections,

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

National Theatre Live in HD Encore: Hamlet: 7 p.m. The WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4 Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old APL Poetry Writing Group: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Hosted by Old Say- 180 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit brook poet laureate Sandra Yannone. Open to all experi- thekate.org. ence levels. Supplies available. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org. Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: Author Event: William J. Mann: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Book- Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel. Hosted by the Chester Public sellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: Black Dahlia: Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Murder, Monsters, and Madness in Midcentury Hollywood. Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary. visit rjjulia.com. Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures Concert by Gadan: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn with Novelist Vanessa Riley: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel. Hosted by the Essex Library or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

FRIDAY, FEB. 6 Winter Jams for Camp Fundraiser Concert: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, 4 Liberty St. Doors open at 5 p.m. Features performances by Someone You Can XRay, Shorebreak, and The Gleeful Conspiracy. Suggested donation: $10 individual, $20 family. Proceeds benefit the Chester Park & Rec summer camp funds. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct. Concert by Laurel Canyon Band (Tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young): 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

To submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email to news@shorepublishing.com. For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website zip06.com. The deadline for submissions is noon, eight days prior to the publication date.

REAL ESTATE • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 8, 2026

Real Estate Transactions BRANFORD

DEEP RIVER

KILLINGWORTH

26 Cedar Knolls Dr Unit 26: Steven Beresner of Branford to Lori A. Morrissey, $334,900 on 12/19/2025 107 Chestnut St: Jennifer S. Cassella of Branford to Ngawang Namdak and Zhu Jingzhi, $450,000 on 12/17/2025

Castle Hts: Richard J. Lof of Deep River to Andrea Lanoux and Christopher Colbath, $105,000 on 11/19/2025 24 Elm St: Rita Palmer Samuels T and Caroline Samuels of Deep River to Yousef and Madelyn Mazaheri, $454,000 on 12/02/2025 69 High St: Robert D. Foltz and David Devlin-Foltz of Deep River to Brandon G. and Jessica L. Green, $407,000 on 11/25/2025 347 Main St: Olit 2025-Hb1 Alternative of Deep River to Mieczyslaw Palak, $316,000 on 12/03/2025 15 Prospect St: Amburg Caroline Joyce Est and Lisa Fraser of Deep River to Bradley P. Kline and Katherine E. Straka, $393,000 on 11/25/2025

37 Titus Coan Rd: Timothy P. and Robin Faircloth of Killingworth to Daniel M. and Melissa M. Sherrin, $720,000 on 12/18/2025

ESSEX

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CHESTER 47 Ferry Rd: Nancy Devens of Chester to Ryan and Robin Linares, $1,275,000 on 12/18/2025 28 S Wig Hill Rd: Vito L. Nanni and Maria Arce of Chester to Holly S. Pinto, $580,000 on 12/15/2025

CLINTON

85 River Rd Unit J6: Anne Novak of REALTOR Essex to Lkh LLC, $450,000 on YOUR GATEWAY HOME A N D R A C I A R L E G L I O 12/16/2025 C 203.804.6185 | OS203.318.3570

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WESTBROOK 30 Dowd Rd: Janet Cartwright of Westbrook to Wendy Lang, $425,000 on 12/19/2025 155 Fawn Hill Dr: John and Meredith Werner of Westbrook to Theresa M. and Holly A. Bonanomi, $425,000 on 12/15/2025 321 Old Clinton Rd: Matthew J. Egan of Westbrook to Timothy E. Brophy, $945,000 on 12/17/2025

Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group. For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.

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Companies Companies of of the the World World C 2 0 3 . 8 0 4 . 6 1 8 5 | MADISON O 2 0 3 . 3 1 8• .GUILFORD 3570 C 2 0 3 . 8 0203.318.3570 4 . 6 1 8 5 | O 203.453.0391 03.318.3570 S A N D R A C I A R L E G L I O . R AV E I S . C O M | S A N D R A . C I A R L E G L I O @ R AV E I S . C O M

C 203.804.6185 | O 03.318.3570 S A N D R A C I A R L E G L I O . R AV E I S . C O M | S A N D R A . C I A R L E G L I O @ R AV E I S . C O M

GUILFORD

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709 BOSTON POST ROAD | MADISON | CT 06443

10 Bluff Ave Unit 1-3: Jeffery and Margrit Flynn of Clinton to Swift Home Services LLC, $95,000 on 12/16/2025 9 Bonny Ln: Klaus and Adela Breuer of Clinton to Ernest and Geraldine Fusco, $599,000 on 12/18/2025 59 Founders Vlg Unit 59: Christopher A. Jones of Clinton to Edward H. Desgrosseilliers and Betty A. Crisanti, $299,900 on 12/18/2025 59 Old Post Rd Unit AR1: Lara B. Bickford of Clinton to Joy and John Henault, $249,900 on 12/16/2025 7 Osprey Cmns S: Eileen R Matthay T and Richard A. Matthay of Clinton to Lori S Payton 2020 RET and Lori S. Payton, $1,740,000 on 12/16/2025 96 Shore Rd: David P. and Samantha R. Herrington of Clinton to Gary and Barbara Corliss, $396,000 on 12/16/2025 The Hammocks: Harvey N. and Lori S. Payton of Clinton to Steiner A & C Eberle RET and Christine S. Eberle, $1,295,000 on 12/15/2025 Recognized Recognized as as the the #1 #1 Luxury Luxury Brokerage Brokerage by by Leading Leading Real Real Estate Estate Companies Companies of of the the World World

81 Bartlett Dr: Joshua D. and Amanda E. Bird of Madison to Joanna B. Suriani and Michael A. Madden, $630,000 on 12/16/2025 513 Boston Post Rd: Thomas J Cartledge T and Thomas J. Cartledge of Madison to Walter Kerr, $1,100,000 on 12/19/2025

Suzanne.McConville@Raveis.com • www.SuzanneMcConville.raveis.com

C 203.804.6185 | O 03.318.3570 S A N D R A C I A R L E G L I O . R AV E I S . C O M | S A N D R A . C I A R L E G L I O @ R AV E I S . C O M

G A T E W AY

MADISON

1057 Boston Post Rd: Bfc LLC of Old Saybrook to Steven Jeske, $400,000 on 12/16/2025 249 Boston Post Rd: Jhinson Jara and Mershuri Velez of Old Saybrook to Jenny P. Palacios, $350,000 on 12/16/2025

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48 Andrews Rd: Sara A Woolston RET and Joseph L. Woolston of Guilford to Erin Leroy and Robert Christensen, $2,200,000 on 12/15/2025 42 Copper Hill Dr Unit 42: Seaside Capital LLC of Guilford to Claire Ellis, $480,000 on 12/17/2025 360 E River Rd: Chamberlain George L Est and Mari Mariano of Guilford to Jenna and Juan Melendez, $650,000 on 12/15/2025 42 Horseshoe Rd: Carolyn F. Johns of Guilford to Debbie Volpe, $525,500 on 12/19/2025 40 Kenneth Cir: Eugene F. Mulone of Guilford to Stephen Cestaro and Cheyenne Inturri, $425,000 on 12/16/2025 817 Lake Dr: Dominican Fathers Of New of Guilford to Kirsten Seyler, $400,000 on 12/17/2025

This beautifully renovated home is ready for you to move right into. The light-filled interior offers an open flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, perfect for relaxed coastal living. The primary suite features a gorgeous new full bath, while the finished lower level adds 700 sq ft of flexible space currently used as a family room and third bedroom.

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Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

JANUARY 8, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

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